Donald Julius Materi, 1931-2013

Donald Julius Materi, age 81, passed away and went to Heaven February 13, 2013 at the Wyoming Medical Center after a short illness, surrounded by his family.

Don was born on the family ranch south of  Upton, Wyoming June 4, 1931 the son of John and Jessie (Harris) Materi. Don graduated valedictorian from Upton High School in 1949, then enlisted in the US Navy and was a Radarman on the USS Rochester during the Korean War until his honorable discharge in 1955.  After his discharge, Don married Darlene Reed in Upton, Wyoming on December 15, 1955.  He then enrolled at the University of Wyoming and graduated with honors with a Petroleum Engineering  degree in 1961.  Don and Darlene moved to Oklahoma and Don worked in the Oil Industry until moving back to Wyoming in 1965.  Don's career then took the family to Moorcroft and Upton, Wyoming until settling in Casper, Wyoming in 1971.  Don then worked for True Oil, The Crude Company, and Texaco Trading and Transportation, developing many friendships throughout his career.  Don retired in 1991 to take care of his wife, his lawn and his children and grandchildren, family, friends, and pets.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Darlene, and his children, Mark of Thermopolis, Wyoming; daughter Sandra Materi of Casper, Wyoming, and Stephanie Hambrick of Casper, Wyoming.  Don's grandchildren are Megan Hambrick of Bozeman, Montana, Jocelyn Materi of Thermopolis, Wyoming, Justine Materi of Casper, Wyoming,  Josh Materi of Laramie Wyoming, Jamie Materi of Thermopolis, Wyoming, Alex Hambrick of Casper, Wyoming, and great grandson Lance Materi of Thermopolis, Wyoming.
Throughout his life, Don was known for his sense of humor and kind and gentle spirit.  He was loved and respected by everyone that knew him.

Memorials may be made in Don's name to the Seton House in Casper.  Services are scheduled for Saturday, February 16, 2013 at  11:00 AM at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Casper.

Obituary courtesy of Bustard’s Funeral Home.