Wesley R. Coulson: 1945 – 2024
Wesley “Wes” Ray Coulson, 79, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, passed away unexpectedly at home. He was born on August 20, 1945, in Buffalo, Wyoming to Katherine and Ray Coulson. He graduated from Worland High School in 1963. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1963 and served until 1967. He moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming in 1978, He worked at American National Bank when they first moved to Cheyenne then retired from the Wyoming Department of Transportation after 30 years.
He was a part of Cheyenne Frontier Days for over 40 years, including Wagon Doctors, Parade Committee, and a member of the HEELS. He loved being a volunteer with CFD, was a huge Denver Broncos fan and an avid Budweiser collector. He also loved all sports and being with his family. He would give you the shirt off his back and loved everyone.
He is survived by the love of his life of 45 years, Virginia Bowers; daughters, Stacey Hammock (Matt), Janetta (Chris) Bowey; stepdaughters, Debi Eldridge, Kris (Scott) Smith; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, Katherine and Ray Coulson; sisters: Bobbie Jean Coulson, Sydney Stoneking, and Yvonne McLane; in-laws, Rachel and Virgil Tomson; and great-grandson, Hunter Durako.
Celebration of Life will be December 7 at The Gathering Place from 2 to 4 p.m. Feel free to wear anything CFD, Broncos, or Budweiser related. A military honors service will be held at the cemetery at a later date.
Janet Boyd Fedell: 1935 – 2024
Janet “Jan” Boyd Fedell, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024, at the age of 89 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Born on August 15, 1935, in Wheatland, Wyoming, Jan was the beloved daughter of Neil and Fay Boyd and grew up immersed in the ranching culture of her family. Throughout her formative years, she lived in various towns including Cody, Lingle, Rock Springs, Rawlins, and ultimately settled in Laramie, Wyoming. Jan graduated from Laramie High School in 1953, where her passion for music blossomed. She was known for her beautiful voice, actively participating in glee club and choir, and also embraced her involvement in Job’s Daughters.
In 1958, Jan found love with Bob Fedell while he was attending the University of Wyoming. The couple married and welcomed their son, Eric, during their time living in Colorado. They eventually moved back to Laramie, where Jan proudly and “loudly” supported Eric, cheering him on from the stands at his sporting events. As season ticket holders, Jan’s rendition of the national anthem at Wyoming football games became a cherished tradition that many will remember fondly.
Jan’s interests extended beyond her family; she was a vibrant member of her community who enjoyed playing golf, participating in bridge games, and even bowling. After Eric completed his schooling, Jan and Bob embarked on an adventurous chapter of their lives, spending seven years at Subic Bay, Philippines, and three years in Japan while Bob taught in the Department of Defense schools. During these years abroad, Jan dedicated her time to volunteering which included a local orphanage, further demonstrating her compassionate spirit. Her love for travel and golf enhanced their rich experiences overseas.
Jan is survived by her loving son, Eric (Judy); grandchildren: Bryan, Ashlyn (Brett), Kelli (Ryan); and six great-grandchildren. She is also remembered by her sisters, Gail (Frank) and Barbara.
Jan was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, who passed away just a month prior. As they reunite, their shared memories and love will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who knew them. Jan leaves behind a legacy of kindness, music, and unwavering support for her family and friends. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Larry G. Goodman: 1953 – 2024
Our dad, Larry Goodman, A.K.A “the Old Man,” passed away November 24, 2024. He will be forever missed by his children: Lucas (April), Bryland (Angela), Darren, Stacy Jr (Chris), Michael (Chelsea), Stacy Sr., and Liz (Steve); grandchildren: Tobey, Aden, Rhyli, Rowan, and Sheyanne; his ex-wife, Britta; sister, Sandy; brothers: Rick, Ken, Lyndon, Ron; and many loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Carol; father, Clay; brothers, Gary and Bob.
Larry worked for the Wyoming State Archives for 36 years until his retirement. Larry spent many years making his home the place to be for all his kids and friends. He was known for the most beautiful backyard and party house in town.
We’ve all heard the phrase they don’t make them like that anymore. That was Larry. A man that lived to love and care for his family and friends. His love never wavered. His happiest times were backyard get-togethers, camping trips, annual super bowl party, and Christmas Eve’s; the more the merrier.
He loved fishing and he certainly loved having a beer while he did it. More than the fishing I think he loved sitting on the lake shore, sun on his skin, finding his peace.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Dec. 8, 2024 from 1 to 4 p.m. at The Gathering Place, 1900 E. 21st St. Cheyenne, Wyoming. Please join us for food and memories.
Sharon Keene: 1941 – 2024
Sharon Keene, a nurse, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2024, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She was born on August 25, 1941, in Anderson, Indiana. Sharon’s loving and caring nature touched the lives of many, and her departure leaves behind a void that can never be filled.
Throughout her life, Sharon exemplified dedication and professionalism in her career as a nurse. Her compassionate nature knew no bounds as she tended to the needs of her patients and tirelessly worked to serve those in her care. Her commitment to helping others extended far beyond her professional obligations; she was known for her charitable acts and the countless lives she positively impacted along the way.
Sharon had a profound affinity for cleanliness and organization. She maintained an immaculate home that was always welcoming to friends, family, and even strangers. Her attention to detail was unmatched as she strived for perfection in every task she undertook.
Outside of work, Sharon found joy in various hobbies and interests. She enjoyed occasionally visiting the local casinos and the relaxation it brought into her life. She had an eye for beauty in simplicity; collecting antiques was one of her favorite pastimes. Additionally, Sharon cherished moments of quiet reflection with a good book in hand.
Family meant the world to Sharon and being present for the arrival of her first great-granddaughter, Opal, was one of her proudest accomplishments. She took immense pride in raising her son Robert Keene and being a guiding light in his life. Furthermore, she worked tirelessly raising her two grandsons Christian Keene and Isaac Keene and was incredibly proud with watching them grow into responsible and caring adults.
In this time of grief, we are reminded that Sharon’s legacy will live on through her surviving loved ones. Steven Keene, Sharon’s beloved husband, stood by her side throughout their journey together. His presence brought immense joy to Sharon’s life until the very end. Christian and Isaac Keene, her grandsons, were lucky to have experienced the warmth of their grandmother’s love and wisdom.
To honor Sharon’s memory, a viewing will take place on January 26, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home located at 2222 Russell Avenue, Cheyenne, Wyoming. Following the viewing, a funeral service will be held from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the same location. Friends, family, and all those whose lives have been touched by Sharon are invited to pay their respects and celebrate her remarkable life.
Sharon Keene will forever be remembered as a compassionate and selfless individual who left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to have known her. May her soul find eternal peace as her spirit continues to inspire us all.
Mary Caldwell Weppner: d. 2024
Cheyenne lost one of its own on November 23, 2024. Surrounded by family, Mary Weppner died peacefully on November 23, 2024. She was many things — strong and gentle, kind and fierce, hardworking and loved by many. With volunteer hours that must have topped 10,000 or more, she grew to know the community and its people.
Her parents were Robert G. and Elizabeth Caldwell. Born and raised here, she graduated from Cheyenne High School (Central.) A Latin class left a valued imprint. Two years in Missouri at Stephens College gave her a discerning ear for Southern accents. She could often place a home state from the accent alone. A favorite course was driving a 2-wheeled carriage with a Tennessee Walking Horse in the equestrian program. At the University of Wyoming, Mary studied Speech and Education.
She served as Miss Frontier (60-61) and had a great time doing it. She fondly remembered time spent getting to know Princess Blue Water on booster trips. Daughter Tricia Tarantola and niece Niffy Bube also served as Miss Frontiers, creating a great bond between the three.
She loved the CFD Old West Museum, and as a founding member helped to grow it from the ground up. The pattern repeated with the annual CFD Annual Western Art Show. It was one of the best in the Rockies. A member of the museum Board and Art Show committee for years, she contributed guidance and hard work to the excellence of both. A long time member of W-heels and Chairwoman for 3 years, she valued the costume collection. From that, she curated two historical fashion shows. One featured early 1900s ladies’ undergarments, the other hats worn in the ’40s; both performed multiple times.
Mary enjoyed being a part other groups: Laramie County Cowbelles, DePaul Guild, Civic League, P.E.O., Cowgirls of the West and the Wyoming Cattlewomen’s Association. With a skill for leadership, she served as President, as well as officer in most of the groups. She was a great cook and enjoyed the Gourmet Group in Civic League. Hosting a National Beef Cook-Off at the family ranch was a special event in her life. Gifted at connecting with people, she worked in the State Legislature as a switchboard operator, secretary and reader.
In 1892, Mary’s grandfather Dugald started the family ranch by buying a few homesteads and slowly adding more land. It is known as the D. R. Whitaker ranch. Her mother, Elizaberh Caldwell ran it, exceptionally, until the early 80s. Mary ran it with husband Ed and sister Beth. Involved at all levels, she cooked for numbers small and large, checked cattle, moved cattle, kept the books, made decisions and most loved cutting a hay meadow on a swather. Conversation could revolve around animals: which dog was sleeping with the skunks; bobcats on chicken houses; where were the snakes migrating; the beauty of deer and their destruction of gardens; great horned owls learning to fly; what happened to Cheerio the duck — coons got him.
Their was a certain rhythm to her life, and as hard as she worked, she played. Big laughs never fail to be had when Stockgrowers friends remember their shenanigans. For over 30 years, she and Ed, Buck and Eva Jean Holmes, and Beth and Pete McNiff hosted a legendary CFD party. With another long running group, she and Ed enjoyed motorcycle trips visiting nearly every state. The annual fall trip was a great recharge after a hectic summer. Later, what might be called the Friday night regulars dinner club gave much pleasure. Good laughs, strong connections and fun permeated friendships from her many circles. Friend and son-in-law, Chris Tarantola never tired of testing what made her laugh and what didn’t.
Mary was pleased to be inducted into the CFD Hall of Fame. The Chamber of Commerce presented a Lifetime Acheivement Award to Mary and Ed together for work and dedication to the community. Cowgirls of the West celebrated her as its Annual Honoree.
She and husband Ed were true partners in their family life, community life and business life. He will miss her greatly. As will her children: son Rob; daughters, Ginny Weppner and Tricia Tarantola; and son-in-law, Chris Tarantola. She was known as “Ammie” to her grandchildren: Izzy and Gabbi Tarantola; she adored them and they her. Aunt Mary loved her nieces and nephews: Niffy Bube (husband, Chris; their son, Jack), John McNiff, Wann McNiff, Jodi Weppner (husband, Eric Davis; their children, Lance and Taryn); Tracy Wilson (husband, Cody; stepchildren Dakota and Chyann); and Matt Jagow. She will be fondly remembered by her sisters-in-law, Linda Weppner and Ann Weppner Jagow. Zeke (beloved dog) keeps looking for her.
Mary was very close to her sister and brother. Beth McNiff passed in 2012, and Bill DuBois in 2021. He became family when he started having cocktails most nights with Mary’s mother Elizabeth when they were neighbors.
Donations in her memory to CFD Old West Museum are welcome.
