Charles Duane Spears was born July 14, 1934, to Dewey and Ella (Diers)
Spears in rural Osborne County. He passed away on Sunday January 23,
2022, at the Osborne County Memorial Hospital at the age of 87.
Duane’s early childhood years were spent on the farm south of
Hunter, Kansas. At the age of 12, the family then moved back to Osborne
County settling in Kill Creek township where they continued to farm and
ranch. Growing up on the farm, Duane developed a deep love and
lifelong connection to the land and nature. Working beside his parents
taught Duane the importance of responsibility, the circle of life, and a
strong work ethic.
Duane’s early education was in various rural country schoolhouses
until entering and graduating from Osborne High School in 1952.
Participating in 4-H and showing livestock at the county fair was a big
part of Duane’s life. It was at the Osborne County Fair he met a very
special young lady – Millie Coop who became the love of his life. They
were united in marriage at the Osborne United Methodist Church on April
16, 1955, and shared 66 years of blessed marriage.
The first two years of their marriage Duane and Mille were stationed
at Fort Bliss Army Post, El Paso, Texas. At the end of Duane’s
military service, they returned to Osborne County in Kill Creek township
and began a lifetime partnership of farming and ranching. They were
blessed with four boys Dennis, David, Douglas, and Doyle who worked
beside them on the farm.
Planting and harvesting crops and feeding livestock brought him
life-long enjoyment and satisfaction. Along with the farming operation
Duane enjoyed selling farm supply equipment to area farmers and beyond.
Duane possessed a talent for carrying on a conversation and never met a
stranger. Duane and Millie enjoyed attending the Kansas State fair and
having a booth for D and D Farm Supply where they made many friends
over the years. For many years they were a part of The Rural Life
group, comprised of area farm couples. Each month, they gathered in
fellowship enjoying a meal and playing cards.
Four boys on a farm kept things interesting and busy with 4-H
activities, farm chores, and school activities and sporting events.
Duane experienced many proud moments over the years following the four
boys and his grandchildren. At the same time countless life lessons
were passed on to his children and grandchildren that will always be
cherished.
Duane was a member of Kill Creek Presbyterian Church for many years
until it’s closure. His reliance on his faith was apparent when
trusting God’s direction on the day-to-day operation of the farm.
Duane is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Millie, and son Dennis Spears.
He is survived by sons David (Pam) Spears, Valley Center, Kan., Doug
(Tammy) Spears and Doyle (Lisa) Spears, all of Osborne; 12
grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren.
Click HERE for service details.