Duane W. Smith

May 6, 1925 - February 27, 2010

Longtime Burlington, Colorado resident Duane Wesley Smith, age 84, died Saturday February 27, 2010 at Grace Manor Care Center in Burlington.

Duane was born on the family farm near Beardsley, Kansas on May 6, 1925, to John J. and Ethel (Lavell) Smith. He attended a one room school as a young boy and graduated from McDonald, Kansas High School in 1942. He was an accomplished athlete affectionately known as Dewey.

As a shy young man, Duane met Verla Marie Moreland, a vivacious dark haired woman who loved to laugh and dance. On November 10, 1949 they were married in Goodland, Kansas. Duane and Verla had three children Sharman, Shelley, and David. Two of Duane's brothers had married two of Verla's sisters and many joyous times were had with them, their children, and other family members.

Duane was a farmer with a love for the land and took pride in his work. He was an active member of the First Christian Church in Burlington. He and his wife, Verla, were always ready to lend support to the church and its members. He served as deacon, Board chairman and Trustee. Duane began a program to deliver fair booth meals to members who were unable to attend the fair. Although he loved being a family man, he believed in God first and then family.

Duane participated in a local bowling league, and pinochle club as well as a Mesa, AZ shuffleboard league.

The latter part of his life was devoted to the care of his beloved wife as she battled a long illness.

Preceding Duane in death were his parents, his loving wife of 58 years Verla, their son David, and brothers Eldon, John, Lyle, and Veryl Smith.

Those left to cherish his memory are his daughters Sharman Wurst and husband Douglas of Greeley, CO, and Shelley McArthur and husband Jerry of Burlington. Grandchildren Elisa Freitag and husband Josh of Tacoma, WA, Ian Wurst and fiance Amanda Schroeder of Denver, CO, Jason McArthur, Eric McArthur and wife Ashley, Cody McArthur and wife Jessica, Traver McArthur and wife Erin, all of Burlington, CO. His four great-grandchildren Samuel McArthur, Cutler McArthur, Allison McArthur, and Grace McArthur. Also surviving is his sister Marlene Schoonover of Scott City, KS as well as nieces, nephews and many special friends.

Facts

Guestbook

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Memorial Donations

Memorial donations may be made to:
First Christian Church and may be left at or sent to the Bank of the West in Burlington

Services

Funeral Service

Tuesday March 2, 2010, 10:30 AM at First Christian Church
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Visitation

Tuesday February 2, 2010, One hour prior at First Christian Church
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