Galen Francis Messer

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Galen Francis Messer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who peacefully departed this life on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born on September 7, 1941, in Picher, Oklahoma, to Galen Prebble and France Marville Messer, he was preceded in death by his charismatic and sharp-witted wife, Vicki, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage, as well as his eldest son, Galen F. Messer Jr. Galen lived a life defined by love, hard work, and devotion to family. He was known for his kindness, humor, and strong work ethic, along with his faithful and honorable service to this country as a Seabee in the United States Navy— “Construimus, Batuimus,” which translates to "We Build, We Fight." Galen embodied this motto in the truest sense in every facet of his life, bettering the lives of all who knew him. Whether through his service as a crane operator for the Operating Engineers Local 12, his work at the Nevada Test Site for over 40 years, his time spent traveling the country with his beautiful wife Vicki and their scruffy dog Tuff, or the countless moments shared with family, he built a legacy that will live on for generations.

Galen is survived by his two daughters, Coralea McClain of Indian Springs, NV, and Yonna VanAlstine, along with her husband Leon, of Amargosa Valley, NV. He is also survived by his youngest son, Brent Messer of Las Vegas, NV, and 9 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, as well as numerous relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 1 PM at the home of Tom and Tamara Seaver, 220 Raleigh Ln, Indian Springs, NV 89018. Family and friends are invited to attend and honor the remarkable life he lived. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to [charity, church, veterans’ group, or cause meaningful to him].

Above all, Galen will be remembered for his deep love and unwavering loyalty and commitment to family. His belief in living each day with gratitude and grace will echo across generations to come. His presence was a gift, and his memory will continue to live on in us all.