Duane Woofter

Duane C. Woofter, 99, passed away at his skilled nursing home in Lincoln, NE on July 20, 2023. He was preceded in death by his wife Ethel Jean Woofter, daughter-in-law Susan Woofter, and granddaughter Whitney Woofter. He is survived by his four children, son Dennis D. and Sheila Woofter of New Market, MD, daughter Glenda and husband Jim Bade of Lincoln, NE, son John and wife Dorothy Woofter of Wichita, KS, and son Wayne and wife Gera Lou Woofter of Hays, KS. He is also lovingly remembered by 11 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Duane was born on September 21, 1923, in Colby, KS to Walter “Babe” and Helen (Carrier) Woofter. He married Ethel Jean (Schonberner) Woofter on September 25, 1941, and they shared 75 years of marriage. During this time, they enjoyed their long-standing square-dancing group and pinochle club. They also loved taking trips to Arizona in their camper.

Duane had a mechanical mind and loved to work with his hands. In his early years, he farmed and drove a tractor. He later owned and worked as a mechanic at Duane’s Eastside 66 and finished his career driving a fuel truck for the Co-Op. He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid fisherman. He was also very proud of his association with the Moose Lodge.

Duane was a hands-on grandfather. He played hours and hours of cards and games, usually letting the grandkids win. He was a sports enthusiast, especially when it came to wrestling. He loved travelling across the state to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events and was a big Colby Eagles and Kansas State Wildcats fan. He would do anything to put a smile on his grandchildren’s faces.

Duane will always be remembered for his ornery smile, his quick wit, and his charm. Above all, his family meant the world to him, and he showed them all unwavering support.

A graveside service will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Beulah Cemetery, Colby, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages and very much appreciates any memorial donations be sent to the Thomas County Foundation, ATTN: Colby Kids Wrestling Club at 350 S. Range, #14, Colby, KS 67701 or sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or to share memories or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com

Gone Fishin’!