Danny Grover Breckenridge

Danny Grover Breckenridge, 78, was born on April 19th,1947 in Butler,

Missouri. He was the second son of Lester and Goldie Breckenridge.

Danny grew up in Rich Hill from where he graduated high school in 1965.

After graduation, he enlisted in the army, eager to serve his country. After

basic training he married his high school sweetheart, Willa Sue Tourtillott

in 1966.

Shortly thereafter he was stationed in Vietnam. Danny served two

tours of duty in Vietnam as a helicopter crew chief. While in Vietnam,

Danny distinguished himself by earning many awards and accolades,

including 30 Air Medals and being awarded the Bronze star. After Vietnam

the couple had a son, John Brian (Pete). Danny and family also spent two

stints of 3 years each in Germany where they made many friends. Danny

spent one unaccompanied tour in Korea. Danny continued his military

career, eventually becoming Master Sergeant in 1982. He subsequently

retired from the military in 1985.

He and Willa Sue moved back to Rich Hill and have lived there ever

since. Danny felt the urge to continue to a new career where he used his

skills from the military to become a driver for CFI. He loved talking on

the CB, going by Big Red. He drove over-the-road for CFI for sixteen years

earning the Million Mile distinction. Dan enjoyed hunting, especially deer

camp in the fall. He also enjoyed camping and fishing with his family and

friends.

Danny passed away on March 16th at the Kansas City, VA hospital,

after a short but complicated illness. Danny is preceded in death by

his mother and father, brother Tom (Vivian) and sister Sherry (Terry

Heffernan). Danny is survived by wife Willa Sue, son Pete, grandson

William (Macie), four Great-Grandchildren, Korben, Killian, Cale and

Charlie. He is also survived by four siblings, Jim (Peggy), Dude (Jeanna),

Tim (Della) and Susie Breckenridge, as well as many nieces and nephews

--A Celebration of Life Visitation

Saturday March 21, 2026

10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

Heuser Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Military Rites Following

Contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project