Wesley M. Stearns, 73, of Williston, ND passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at his home in Williston, ND.

Wes was born December 15, 1950 in Havre, Montana to Gay A Stearns, and Thelma (Allery) Stearns. Wes was the oldest of 5 children.

Wes began his oilfield career in August of 1965 at the ripe old age of 15. He continued to work in the oilfield as a Mud Engineer / Drilling Fluid Specialist until the day he passed. He thoroughly enjoyed his career as it was his passion and he refused to retire because of this. He attended schools in Chinook Montana and College in Havre at Northern Montana University.

He was known to be very independent, spirited and certainly tested his parents at a young age. This independence led to a very entrepreneurial spirit as a young man and he successfully started and built his own business, which only flourished. His career spanned over 50 years. He is well known throughout the Williston Basin and into Montana for his business savvy and extensive knowledge of the oil industry. He was always willing to help others or lend a listening ear about business questions. He was quick witted and always loved teasing his family and friends.

One of his favorite past times was demolition derbies from the late 70s to early 90s. He was well known for his gloss black Ford Galaxie 500s and Chrysler Imperials in both North Dakota and Montana. He developed many friendships throughout his derby days. He looked forward to long summers of demolition derbies which involved the whole family.

His family was of the utmost priority to him. Not only his immediate family but extended family benefited from his guidance and knowledge. He constantly worked to provide them with both wants and needs. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren meant the world to him and truly brought out his softer side. He would constantly remind everyone to “do the right thing” and “take care of business”.

He is survived by his children, Candace Stearns of Billings MT; son, Wesley (Kandi) Stearns of Williston, ND; grandchildren, Derik Stearns of Denver CO, Lacey (Justin) Seifert of Fargo, ND, Page Stearns of Williston, ND, Trinity (Isaac) Stearns of Williston ND, Rylee Stearns of Williston ND, Westlyn and Olivia Stearns of Williston, ND; great–grandchildren, Esiah, Reign, Cash, Loki, Lilly, Beau, Sawyer, Allen, Brixlie, Isaias, Silas; siblings, Conrad (Lana) Stearns of Dickinson, ND, Charmaine (Winston) Morin of Harlem, MT, Tracie (Mitch) Johnson of Fargo ND, Sanford Stearns of Miles City, MT; numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Wesley was preceded in death by his parents, Gay and Thelma Stearns; his wife, Martha Stearns; son-in-law, Mike Green.