Don Testerman

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Donald Lee Testerman, age 88, of Noel, Missouri, known affectionately as Don, passed away peacefully on Saturday afternoon, September 28, 2024, at Solace House of the Ozarks in Joplin, Missouri, after a brief illness. He entered this life on December 5, 1935, in Anderson, Missouri, the youngest of three sons born to the late William and Clara (Schneider) Testerman.

Don grew up in the rolling hills of Missouri and graduated from Pineville High School in 1953. His strong sense of duty led him to serve his country in the United States Army, a commitment that spoke volumes about his character. On December 28, 1958, he married the love of his life, Geneva Dell Carter. Their union was one of mutual respect and deep affection, lasting until Geneva's passing on June 18, 2021.

After his military service, Don embarked on a career with the Missouri State Highway Department. For over 30 years, he worked diligently as a Foreman at the Noel barn, retiring in 1995. His work ethic and leadership were well-respected, and he left behind a legacy of hard work and integrity.

Don was a man of the land, finding solace and joy in farming. His hands were rarely still, as he tended to his fields and livestock with a passion that was palpable. Hunting and fishing were not just hobbies for Don; they were a way of life that allowed him to connect with nature and instill in his family the value of self-sufficiency and respect for the environment.

An avid card player, Don's competitive spirit shone brightly during games of pitch, where he was both a formidable opponent and a gracious winner. His love for his wife Geneva's cooking was well-known, and he often boasted that there was nothing better than a meal prepared by her loving hands.

Don's legacy is carried on by his children, Ron Testerman and wife, Sue, of Noel, Missouri and Kim Spratt and husband, Pat, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; two grandsons, Cale Spratt and wife, Kristin and Braden Spratt and wife, Lauren; four great grandchildren, Liam, Adalyn, Emerie and Marigold; as well as a host of other family and friends. 

 He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Geneva; and two brothers, Robert and Ray Testerman. 

In the quiet moments, when the sun sets over the Missouri fields he so dearly loved, we will remember Don. We will see his legacy in the strength of his family, the prosperity of the land he nurtured, and the community he helped build. He lived a life of purpose and left this world better than he found it.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Tracy Cemetery in Anderson with Pastor Bob Holloway officiating. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Ron Testerman, Pat Spratt, Cale Spratt and Braden Spratt. In lieu of flowers memorials are being directed to Solace House of the Ozarks c/o the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.