RUSHFORD, MINN. - Dylan Dean Westby, 20, of Rushford, left the earth to watch over us from above on Saturday, April 18, 2009.
He was born in LaCrosse, Wis. on July 12, 1988, to Dean and Dee Ann (Brand) Westby. Dylan was raised in Rushford and graduated from Rushford - Peterson High School in 2007.
Dylan was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved to sit in his tree stands on the family homestead looking for that trophy buck. Dylan always waited patiently to pull that monster fish out of the water while fishing on the Root River. He was a kind hearted and loving young man, nothing showed that more than to see him joking around with his family and teaching his nieces how to hunt and fish. He is a loved son, brother, grandson, uncle, cousin and friend. Dylan is immensely loved by his parents and siblings. He will be painfully missed and never forgotten.
Dylan left to watch over his parents: Dean and Dee Ann; two sisters: Rana (Andrew) Olson of Kasson, Minn., Leah (Shawn) Tennant of Buffalo City, Wis.; one brother, Steven of Rushford; grandparents: Doris and Shelby Westby, and Marilyn Brand of Rushford; five nieces: Tawna, Tia, Kylie, Madison, and Macy; and by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Vernon Brand.
The funeral service for Dylan will be at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, at Highland Prairie Lutheran Church in rural Peterson, Minn. with the Rev. Wade Davick officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday at Hoff Funeral Homes - Rushford Chapel and one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.
Please leave a memory of Dylan and sign his online guestbook at www.hofffuneral.com
tia wrote on Jun 27, 2009:
"dear dylan
i love you dylan.i cant wait to shot that monster buck. i have so many good memories with you. i love you so so so so so so so so much! LOL UNCLE DYLAN LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVEYOU.HAPPY 21 BIRTHDAY UNCLE DYLAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.OMG your 21!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.i wove you. its your birthday.i will miss snowmobling ,lol,hanging out and all that fun stuff with you uncle DYLAN youve gave me the last ten years of my life lov your alweys tia..........christenson."
tia christenson wrote on May 17, 2009:
"daer uncle dylan i am going to miss you teaching me how to hunt and fish. i miss you so so so so so so so much. i want my uncle dylan back so much. i will never ever forget you. i miss your smily and the way you looked at. you were alwes ther for me and you will alwes bethar.i cant stop thinking about.i miss your hugges and i alwes be your pits and your littel girl.love your alwes littel girl tia marie christenson.i love you."
kylie wrote on May 17, 2009:
"dear Dylen
you were like a uncl to me i'm going to miss you so so so so so so much . we all have qustens like (why did i do this) BUT WE CAN'T ANSER THEM.
"
Beth Beddow (Johnson) wrote on Apr 29, 2009:
"Dean,DeAnn and Family;
I know we haven't been in touch for sometime, just want you to know that your in my thoughts and prayers. And my heart goes out to you all.
With deepest sympathy. Beth and family"
Jen wrote on Apr 29, 2009:
"R.I.P Dylan... i know you know that you will be missed y many..."
Joe Peterson wrote on Apr 27, 2009:
"Dean, Dee and Family -
Ross told me about Dylan's passing. My heart goes out to you all and want you to know your family is in our prayers. Dylan was a great kid and will be sorely missed. I hope you are soon able to find comfort in this very sad time.
Joe Peterson and Family"
Cassi Rothering wrote on Apr 24, 2009:
"Dylan~
I have known you since we started school together. We lost touch since I moved from Rushford, but I think of all my old classmates every now and then and you stood out, because we used to play together since we lived so close. I will miss your smile and your laugh. I have been praying for strength for your family. Rest In Peace my friend.
Cassi"
Derek Berg wrote on Apr 24, 2009:
"To Dean, Dee, and Family, I'm sorry I couldn't make the funeral but my heart goes out to all. Your never suppose to have to bury your kids. A parents worst nightmare come true. You're good people with a strong love and family bond that will help you through this.
May God bless his memory and help you through this difficult time."
Ashley Berg wrote on Apr 24, 2009:
"I guess I have been avoiding this..so much to say, yet I don't know what to say. I've always seen you as a "little brother" and I hope you knew that. I remember the days you would stop down to my apartment when you guys lived above us or when we would stop up. I also remember you telling me you would always have my back and I'll hold you to that now that you are watching down from heaven. Like Jason said, I remember the days we used to pack our vehicles and go down the figure 8. Dean, Deann, Steven, Rana, Leah, Sarah and family Dylan will be in our hearts and memories forever.
Much Love to all,
Ashley"
Cindy wrote on Apr 24, 2009:
"Dee, Dean and Family,
I am so so sorry for your loss. I know who Dylan is but did not know him personally. I have read all the tributes to him - what a great kid !!!! He surely has alot of family and friends who love him and that are going to miss him immensely. My heart goes out to all of you and I will keep you in my prayers. It is so hard to lose someone you love - especially a child. That is the toughest thing we could ever go thru. He will be with all of you - just in a different way. May you find some comfort knowing there are so many family and friends who cared about Dylan and now - they want to be there for you during this very difficult time.
Hugs to you.
Cindy
"
Crystal Brand and Kasey Johnson wrote on Apr 24, 2009:
"Kasey:
i miss all the good times we all had. Still wish your were here so me you and levi could go over roading together and make some more videos. I remember this time when i caught your fish. R.I.P man i love you...
Crystal:
I just wanted to say that i love you and i miss you very much. Still wish you were here so i could watch you dance to the music in your jeep(that always made me laugh even if i was in a bad mood) I miss you just being there for me its like you wern't even a cousin but more like a big bro. I love you and miss you XOXOXOXO R.I.P"
Ingrid Pape wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Sweet Dylan, you will always have a special place in my heart. I will miss your smile and the hugs we shared. Our Thanksgiving football games just won't be the same. Rest in peace and know how much you are loved by all."
Rana wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Baby Boy,
I will miss your smile, and your beautiful blue eyes. I will miss the way you made me laugh and shake my head when I was trying to be mad at you. I will miss the way you warmed my heart when you hugged and kissed me. I will miss the twinkle in your eyes when you were about to pull a prank on one of us. I will miss watching you play with the girls, and making plans with them. I will miss the joy you brought to our family, no matter how tough things got you could bring us back from the gloom. Baby boy, I will miss you. I am so glad that you are free from the the pain, baby, I only wish we could have taken it away for you. You deserved so much better. It is my hope that all of our actions here will make you proud and someday we can see that beautiful face again. I know you and Grandpa B. are fishing now, so catch a big one for all of us and smile that stunning smile. I love you baby brother and I will miss you seeing you so much, but you will be in my heart always.
With Love,
Rana"
Paco aka Aaron Brand wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Dylan i never got the chance to tell you how much you meant to me. I love you man. I will never forget all the good times we had together. One memory that sticks out was the time i picked up you an Andrew in my wagon cruisin down into wiscoy i was tryin to show off an we went into the ditch. How bout all those times we went swimmin down at the point. All those great trips up to the cabin. The memory that sticks out most is the last time you were at my house. The look on your face when natalie came runnin up to you and sarah. You had the biggest smile that i have ever seen. As short as it was i hope you had the time of your life. So when you drop your line in the water know that one day i will be walkin with my pole up the river till i find you. I love you and i will never forget you.
Peace out."
Brad and Shauma Meyer & Family wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Our family's thoughts and prayers are with you, today and always. May God and the beautiful memories you all have bring you peace. Please know you are in many people's thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Chris & Tammie Rothering wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Dean ~ DeeAnn ~ and Family
Words can't express the pain you are experiencing now. Just know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dylan will be missed.
Chris & Tammie Rothering"
Caring Heart wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"DYLAN~~~~My heart aches for you, knowing the pain you where going through just breaks my heart. Such pain should not be experinced by anyone!! To the Westby Family my thoughts and prayers are with you. And may you find peace and comfort knowing that Dylan is now the happiest that he has ever been."
Alec Von Arx and Jake Pape wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Dylan, we are gonna miss you and all the fun times we had like four wheeling at grandma's or football on thanksgiving. You were always fun to be around and we will miss you!"
Alec Von Arx and Jake Pape wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Dylan, we are gonna miss you and all the fun times we had like four wheeling at grandma's or football on thanksgiving. You were always fun to be around and we will miss you!"
Ted Von Arx wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Dylan, I've always enjoyed your funny stories about hunting, motorcylce jumps, and parties. It always fun to get together at Thanksgiving and play football. You're a good kid, and I will miss you!
Love Uncle Ted"
Ted Von Arx wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"To Dean, Deann and Steven,
I can not imagie the heartbreak you are going through. I just know Dylan was and is a good kid. I believe in God and I believe God is now taking care of Dylan. God has a new friend in Dylan, I also believe God understands the turmoil and stress Dylan was going thru and he will hold Dylan in high regard and keep him til we all meet again.
"
Andre Von Arx wrote on Apr 23, 2009:
"Dylan,
I will definitely miss you, especially with the great memories at the family gatherings. Playing football on thanksgiving and getting into random snowball fights at the christmas parties. You were always fun to be around and will be missed dearly."
cindy loveless wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"dylan i will miss you everyday kiddo we had a special bond and talked openly and honestly almost everyday thanks for being part of my life and always telling me how much you loved howard and i thanks for your corky faces you made when you knew i was sad every time i see a deer i will smile and think of you see you again someday love ya"
Deborah and Marvin Grendahl wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"We did not know Dylan as so many of you that have written, but by what has been said about this fine young man we wish we would have had the opportunity. Our prayers and concerns to the Westby family.
Love, Debby"
David and Missy Keenan wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"We are so sorry for your loss. Not a day has gone by that we don't think of Dylan or your family. I don't really know if I can truely express what we are feeling in words. His smile warmed so many hearts and he had a great impact on anyone he met. I know that none of us will ever forget or stop loving Dylan. Keep his love and memory in your hearts and thoughts. Please if you need anything call us. We love all of you very much and cherish the fact that we are apart of this wonderful family."
Sara Vesterse wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"Hey Dylan,
We have had so many fun times. There is many times when your name is brought up now, and we all sit and laugh about all the memories we have had with you. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. You will be missed, and you will NEVER be forgotten.
Sara Vesterse
"
Duane and Shirley Agrimson wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"Our love goes out to you..............Jonathan especially sends his heartfelt love to you. He said Dylan had a heart of gold..........we always remember him running around on his bike.
May Jesus fill your heart with comfort in a way only we can..........our love to you, Duane and Shrley Agrimson"
Tiffany Ronnenberg wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"hey dylan we didnt talk much but when we did you always knew what to say to make someone smile. you could change the mood of someone from being mad/sad to be happy as can be. you were a great person and you will be missed by so many, but we will never forget you.
love always,
Tiffany"
Vicki wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"I did not know Dylan very well but he put a smile on my dear friend Sarah's face and he meant so much to her, which means a lot to me. He was always very sweet to me. Dylan, I thank you for taking care of Sarah and I know you'll be watching over her and the rest of your family.
My condolences to all who knew and loved him, you will all be in my prayers.
Vicki Palmquist"
Delone Schuster wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"Our cousin Debby Grendahl wrote "I did not know Dylan" - nor did I (the result of family members spreading out hither and yon)...but reviewing the comments made on this on-line guest book about his fun-loving attitude and constant smile brings back memories of Burton Westby (Dylan's great uncle who died of polio in 1948, and the brother of Grandpa Shelby). Burton was like a brother to me. He had the same fun-loving personality as Dylan ...always a smile on his face. Dylan -- enjoy heavon with Burton -- I know you'll be smiling down on us!"
Good Shepherd Nursing Staff wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"To Doris we are extremely sorry and saddened for the loss of your grandson Dylan. We are all thinking of you and your family and wanted you to know we are always a phone call away if you need anything. You are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers."
Aunt Holly and Cousin Aric and Cousin Adam wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"Hey Dill we love you, our hearts will always be with you forever. My mom will always remeber the cute nickname she had for you "my dill pickle". The memories of us fishing up north will be in our hearts forever. You will always be with us no matter what we are doing. Every beautiful sight, sound, and images will remind us of you. We are going to miss you and love you always."
Lisa Von arx wrote on Apr 22, 2009:
"Dylan--I will always remember your sweet smile. We had such a wonderful talk at Jordy and Erica's wedding party. It was always so much fun hanging out with you. We will all miss you terribly but will hold on to all the wonderful memories we have. You will be in our hearts forever and we will never forget you. WE LOVE YOU!!!"
loretta clark wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"I remember when Dylan was born! My thoughts and prayers go out to u guys in the loss and healing. Leah I am here for you if you need anything.
Love you guys, Loretta"
Nick Skree and Amber Meldahl wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"RIP Dylan you were a good friend and you will always be missed. Steve - always here for ya man.-Nick"
Randy Roland wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"I had the privilege of working with Dylan for the Flood Relief program. Dylan was a hard working, fun loving person who cared about the people around him.
My condolences go out to Dean and DeeAnn and family."
Ann Storlie wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Our prayers are with your family during this time of great sadness. Please remember I am here if need anything."
Robbie Christiano wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Dylan was a very good friend. I used to hang out with him alot when i was younger. I will always remember the times we had together. Dylan always had a lot of respect and would put on a smile everytime i saw him. My prayers are with the Westby family."
Lacie Newgarden wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Dylan I dont even know where to start. Ive known you since forever ago and have spent alot of time with you and the family. We had alot of good times even though they usually ended with you and steven making me cry! :) i will miss you always and keep you in a safe place in my heart!!
Love you always and forever!!
Lacie"
Ross, willow, and Calla Hoaglund wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Dylan- I will think about you alot and the laughs we had during deer hunting. You always gave off a great vibe and could make people laugh just by being yourself. I will make sure the deer hunting crew gives you a proper hello every year during deer hunting. -Much Love"
nonnie loveless wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"I'm sorry to hear about your son. I know just how you feel, because my son Robert did the same thing, for no reason that we know of. I'm sure we will never stop thinking of them.
All we can do is pray so they know just how much we loved them.
we will never stop thinking about them..It has been 11 yrs. now and I think of Robert every day.
Take care of your self as he would want you too."
Emma Hoaglund wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Some of my most cherished memories from childhood involve my sweet cousins Dylan and Steven. Playing in that giant cage thing that holds corn (i'll admit I don't know what its called :/) racing on top of hay bails, stealing popsicles from the freezer, and finally coming inside for a meal prepared by Grandma Doris.
As children, we show our souls on our sleeve. I will forever covet these memories, as they are a reminder of the sweet soul of my cousin Dylan.
"
Duane & Linda Franzwa wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Our prayers are with your whole famiily. Pull together and you will get through this sad time, appreciate the hugs from family and friends-knowing that everyone is trying to help you and share your grief.
We love you Doris, and pray that every single day gets a little easier to bear. We hope you can draw from the love that surrounds you.
Duane & Linda Franzwa"
Jason Spitzer wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"I dont know where to start man... I really will miss you and all the great times we had hunting at your grandma and gandpas farm for squrals, you telling me not to shoot at everything that moves lol. Fishing in the Root River. Driving around listening to you make up your own words to rap songs or any song at that, it was fun. Fires at the figure eight. Riding bike to Whalan. I dunno you were a good friend and always listen to what i had to say. Kind hearted telling me how great of a dad i will be. I think im doing pritty well. I could go on forever about the stuff we have done together. I will always love and miss you man.YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
PS:I DUMPED A BEER OUT FOR YOU LASTNIGHT I HOPE YOU GOT IT. LOVE YOU LIKE A BRO!"
Steve & Liz (Bellock) Fenner; Erik & Ian wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Dean, DeeAnn, Steven and the entire Westby and Brand Family: I know there are no words we can say to you that will help ease the pain you are going through right now; but please do know that we are thinking about you at this most-difficult time."
Robert wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"DYLAN
i WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER A BIG SMILE ON YOUR FACE.
EVEN IN 100 DEGREE TEMPS WHEN YOU STACKED HAY IN ITS PLACE.
I KNOW THAT NOW YOU ARE DOING ALL THINGS YOU LIKE
ESPESPECIALLY HUNTING AND FISHING AND RIDING YOUR DIRT BIKE..
YOUR A GOODHEARTED NEPHEW, I SEEN WITH ONE LOOK, NOW YOUR SMILLING IN PARADISE BAITING A HOOK
BECAUSE YIOUR SPIRIT IS FREE NOW AND GONE UP ABOVE
NOW WE WILL ALL MISS YOU AND ALL OF YOUR LOVE.
IN TIME I WILL JOIN YOU WITH A BIG WISH .THAT WE SIT IN YOUR TREESTAND AND THEN WE GO FISH.
LOVE YOUR UNCLE ROBERT.
PEACE OUT"
Maureen (Dailey) Sletten wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Don't know if you remember me but just wanted you to know I am thinking about you and how hard this is for you. Doesn't matter how it happen, its terrible to lose a child. I was once told the pain won't go away but it will get better. I think about my kids every single day and wouldn't wish this on anyone."
Travis Nation wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Dylan i will always be thinkin about you remember last times we hung out We did alot of things together. Fishin huntin and cruisin around just tryin to think of stuff to do. But we always had good times no matter what and i'm really goin to be missin u everyday. R.I.P. Dylan ur goin to be missed by lots of people Could write forever on here bout what we have done together i love u dylan and missin u so much"
Jena wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Dylan you were like a big brother to me... i always loved you around.... you talked to me when i was sad and needed to talk... my brother jason... he really misses you... he really wanted you to come see his new band play.. they are really good... i ove you and R.I.P big brother... just remember that i will always be thinking about and ... and i willnever forget you... you will be in my heart... Love Jena Marie Williams"
Sandy Danielson wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"Dee, Dean & family:
I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved son, Dylan. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. I can't even begin to imagine what you are going through. Always remember the good times you shared and that Dylan will always be with you in your heart. May God wrap his arms around you all and hold you close during this very difficult time!
Sandy & Ron Danielson
"
sarah loveless wrote on Apr 21, 2009:
"hey baby i just want to write and say how much i loved you, you were such a big part of my life you were my world you made me who i am today, you and your family are so wonderful you always made me feel like i was one of you, i will never ever forget you and the memories we created together you had such an impact on my life. you made me so happy everyday even when neither of us showed it. i will always be your peaches and i know that you are looking down on me and will be with me everyday of my life i know thats what you wanted.im just so sorry for everything. you filled my heart with such joy i always had so much fun with you whether we were out doing something or just curled up in bed watching that 70s show. you taught me so much about hunting and fishing, i will never forget it i loved every second i spent with you and your family and you friends. i had the best three and a half years of my life with you.....man i could go on forever. never forget me honey, you will be in my thoughts everyday. i love you all very much and i will always be apart of your family.
love always and forever
sarah"
Dennis and Edna Gravos wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
A fine young man, who loved everyone."
amy wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Dylan we will miss you so much. you were an awesome guy.my condolenses to your family. and to steven, we all love you so much and there is nothing i can say but i will always be here for you. i'm so sorry for your loss"
Alicia Sommer wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Dylan - I am so fortunate to have met you, your laughter and smile was one in a million and I will never forget what you brought to my life. To his family - My sympathy goes out to you during this time of loss and healing. He is looking over you as your angel. To Steven - I love you a lot and here for you always and will help you get through this."
Avery La Fleur wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"To soon it has come to say goodbye. A young man with so much to offer, to a world with so much to learn. Farewell to you now my friend you shall be thought of frequently, talked about often, and missed daily by anyone who has had the honor of knowing such a brave and generous individual."
Sean wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Dylan I didnt get a chance to get to know you very well but from talking to your cousin Nicole I can tell that you where a good person. Dylan you will be missed and our prayers are with your family."
Tawna Christenson wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"he was loved by his famly and all who got a chance to know him. Missed is what he will be. He may be out of sight but he is never out of mind. He will remain in our hears forever and will never be forgoten. He was a great man and and a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. Remember who he was and is and never let that memorie go. Dylan-we will always love you and dont you forget it."
Marilyn wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Dylan, I have been hearing all kinds of good things about you and I
am very proud of you. Lorrie was telling of the days you helped
them hay and you placed her where it would be the easiest on her
back.She cried when she told me as she was very proud of you,
also She felt so blessed that you would be so kind to her.
you won't be forgotten and will always be loved"
Samantha Kuss wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"I didnt get to know you very well in school but from what i knew you were a good person and great friend. I will alway miss you and keep you and your family in my heart."
Joy Hundorf wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Dylan was a good friend and a good kid we will always miss you Dylan.
He hung around our house alot and was a great person. He was always funny and nice to me when he was around
"
Aaron Lee & Ashley Clark wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"You will always be missed."
Roads and Hope wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Dean and family, Sorry for your loss. Dylan was fine young man, always glad to see and greet you with a smile on his face. You are in our thoughts. If anything we can do, please let us know."
Holly McCabe wrote on Apr 20, 2009:
"Dee & Family,
My heart goes out to you all!!! Im speechless but all of u are on my mind and I elieve Dylan is watching over you all.....Life will never be the same but I believe he will direct you all in the right steps forward... My deepest sympathy and prayers with you...Holly MCCabe"