Duane Francis Klaus, age 87 of Hays, Kansas a man whose life was dedicated to hard work, and family passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at HaysMed. He was born on October 3, 1936, in Ellis County, Kansas to Andrew and Celestina (Kreutzer) Klaus. On April 21, 1956, he married Norma Jean Werth at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Schoenchen, Kansas.
Throughout his career, Duane wore many hats, each representing a new challenge and opportunity. He began his journey at Schwaller Lumber in Hays and later ventured into entrepreneurship as the Co-Owner of Hays City Lumber and went on to establish Klaus Dirt Construction, further showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. Even after retiring from his business ventures, he continued to contribute his expertise by working for M&D Excavating. Duane was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 3rd degree St Joseph’s council Knights of Columbus and a Bishop Cunningham 4th degree Knights of Columbus member.
Duane's legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements, and he took immense pride in being a loving husband of 68 years to Norma Jean Klaus. He is survived by his children Daniel (Rosie) Klaus of Wichita, Kansas, Richard (Dana) Klaus of Roeland, Kansas, Todd (Trisha) Klaus of Castle Rock, Colorado, Darla (Chad) Wilson of Hutchinson, Kansas; his brother Cletus (Mildred) Klaus of Hays; sister Rosalie Patterson of Hays; along with 9 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Duane was preceded in death by his parents, son Curtis Klaus, and sister Velma Gabel.
Visitation will take place on Friday 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with the Bishop Cunningham 4th degree honor guard standing guard from 5:30-6:30. Saturday visitation is 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory-Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.
A parish vigil service will be at 6:30 PM on Friday followed by a combined St. Joseph’s 3rd degree Knights of Columbus and Bishop Cunningham 4th degree rosary service all at Brock’s Chapel.
Funeral mass will be 10:00 AM Saturday at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with burial to follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to TMP-Marian, St. Joseph’s Church or HaysMed Hospice.
Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Duane’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com