Duane L. Newkirk

Duane L. Newkirk, 91, of Marshall, MO, passed away on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at Fitzgibbon Living Center in Marshall. He was born on May 10, 1932, in Rapid City, SD, the son of Clifton Newkirk and Faye (Bradfield) Newkirk, who preceded him in death.

On June 1, 1958, in Rapid City, SD, he was united in marriage to Marjorie Kobes, who preceded him in death on April 27, 2021.

Duane raised his family, including three children, on Rimrock Highway in Rapid City, SD. He and his wife, Marjorie, were founding members of Big Bend Presbyterian Church, just outside Rapid City, SD. Duane was a Boy Scout leader and enjoyed hiking and backpacking. He worked as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service, retiring after over 30 years of service.

After he and his wife's retirement, they moved to Sun City West, AZ, living there for 25 years before moving to Sedalia to be near family. Duane enjoyed playing softball until the age of 80. He especially enjoyed it when family came to visit and spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his twin daughters, Donna (Glen) Strausser of Surprise, AZ and Diane Wilbern (Tom Baker) of Hesston, KS; a son, Ken (Donna) Newkirk of Loveland, CO; five grandchildren, Stacy, Megan (Al), Jeremy (Alison), Matthew, and Aurora; five great-grandchildren, Alexis (Jason), Albert, Isabella, Lindsay, and Molly, and two great-great-grandchildren, Noah and Amiya; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, Duane was preceded in death by a sister, Norma Leckner.

In keeping with Duane's wishes, there will be no public services planned. The family will gather for a private memorial service at a later date.

The family would like to sincerely thank all the staff and caregivers at The Living Center in Marshall, MO. The family would also like to thank Rochelle with Fitzgibbon Hospice for the compassion she showed to them.

He is at peace in Heaven with his wife, Marjorie.

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia, MO.