HURON –– Steven G. “Barney” Wessel, age 74, of Huron, passed away on April 30, 2026, at Avantara in Huron. His memorial visitation will be held at 5 to 7 p.m., on Friday, May 8, at Welter Funeral Home with a prayer service beginning at 6:30 p.m. A public committal and burial service will be held on Saturday, May 9, at 10 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery in Huron. Steven Gene Wessel was born on January 3, 1952, to Dale and Doraine (Danforth) Wessel in Huron. He graduated from Huron High School with the Class of 1972.
Barney held many jobs over the course of his life. In the 1970s, he worked on a boat in Corpus Christi, Texas, with Captain Dan, earning a Popeye the Sailor tattoo. During the 1980s, he moved to Sturgis, where he learned electrical engineering at Western Dakota Tech. It was during his time in Sturgis that Steven met Karen (Debolt) Nye. The two were married for fifteen years. While living in Rapid City, Steve started working for DM&E. In 2009, he moved back to Huron and continued to work for DM&E/RCPE until his retirement in 2013.
An avid outdoorsman, Steve especially enjoyed fishing, hunting, and golf. He could often be found enjoying many other outdoor activities as well. He was always proud of his mustache, which can be seen in almost every one of his photos. He liked listening to rock n’ roll music, especially The Beatles and the Allman Brothers. He loved to have a good time and had a special knack for making people laugh. Most of all, he cherished time with his family and would light up whenever he was with his grandson, Barrett. He was a very proud father and did an amazing job raising his children.
Steve is survived by his children: Colton (Carolyn) Wessel of Huron, Kelsea Wessel of St. Louis, Mo., and Mike (Michelle) Webster of Rapid City; brother, Alan Wessel of Wyoming; sisters, Susan Neiffer of Huron and Janet Wessel-Harrison of Huron; and grandchildren Luke and Jane Webster, and Barrett Wessel.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lonny Wessel; and many good friends.
Barney loved his family and friends deeply, and his laughter will be missed by all. He will be missed dearly.
Visit www.welterfuneralhome.com
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