He Makes Coffins The Old-Fashioned Way

He Makes Coffins The Old-Fashioned Way AG WORLD Ag World 8-5-19 Dan Shelton has started a new business that no one wants to talk about. The Greybull, Wyoming, native has begun building simple, no-frills coffins that reflect the personalities of his customers without bankrupting family survivors. "I'm making caskets for farmers, ranchers, hunters, foresters and others who don't want to be laid to rest in a fancy, frilly coffin " says Dan. "Many people aren't comfortable in a suit and tie and yet, when they die, they're dressed up and put in a casket lined with lace." Shelton's first casket was built for a hunter. It's made of solid pine, has buckskin handles, and a carving of a horse on top. Shelton's wife Eileen sewed the plaid lining, which is as thick as a sleeping bag. "We can carve a steer, sheep or any other design onto the top and line the casket to suit the person," says Shelton. His first casket is on display in a furniture showroom in Greybull. Sales have been slow, however, because people don't want to think ahead to death. "We sell our custom-built models for less than $500. You can easily pay $1,200 or more for a similar quality casket from a funeral home." For more information, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Dan Shelton, Crystal Creek, Sheel Route, Box 25A, Greybull, Wyo. 82426 (ph 307 765-2711).

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