March 23, 2026

Linn County News

Published March 25, 2026

Danny Grover Breckenridge, 78, was born on April 19th,1947 in Butler, Mo. 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 three 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 16, 2026, 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); f0ur 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 was held on Saturday March 21, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Heuser Funeral Home and Cremation Services with Military Rites following.

Contributions in his honor may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.