John Duden

John Lee Duden, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025, at the age of 82 in Beloit, Kansas. Born on December 28, 1942, in Colorado Springs to Floyd and Elizabeth Duden.  John's early life was marked by the vibrant and adventurous spirit of the American West, a characteristic that stayed with him throughout his life.

John's journey took him from the picturesquebudrea landscapes of his birthplace to the heart of Kansas, where he found both his calling and his family. He graduated from Colby High School, where he was known for his quick wit and friendly demeanor. After high school, John dedicated many years of service to Colby Community College and Colby Supermarket. Then spending many years in hospital maintenance in Hays and McPherson Kansas. Making countless friends and leaving a lasting impact on his community through both his professional endeavors and his involvement in various associations.

He married the love of his life, Beth on June 17, 1965 and together they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and love. John's legacy includes his three children: Janet, Sandy, and Neal who each carry forward his funny, friendly, and spirited nature. John was a family man at his core, and nothing brought him greater pleasure than spending time with his loved ones.

An outdoorsman through and through, John enjoyed many summers of camping and fishing with his family, creating memories that would be cherished for generations. His love for the outdoors was paralleled only by his passion for sports. As an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, and the K-State Wildcats, John's enthusiasm for his teams was infectious, and he could often be found cheering them on surrounded by family and friends.

Those who knew John would agree that he was the embodiment of a life well-lived. His sense of humor brought laughter to any room, his friendliness made him a cherished companion, and his spirited nature inspired those around him to embrace life with open arms. John's presence was a light that brightened the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

As we bid farewell to John, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time we shared with him. His stories, his laughter, and his unwavering spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. John's journey may have come to a close, but the memories he created will continue to inspire and comfort us for many years to come.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Beth Duden; his daughters, Janet Budreau husband Nick Budreau and Sandy Dean and husband Kevin Dean; and his son, Neal Duden and wife Christy Duden. Survived also by his beloved grandchildren: Nikki, Hannah, Moriah, Kacie, Tyler, Blake, Jason and Calvin and 3 Great Grandchildren. Each member of his family reflects a piece of his character, from his humor to his warmth, ensuring that his legacy will continue to thrive through them.

In honoring John's life, we remember a man who was much more than the sum of his years—a man who was a beloved husband, a cherished father, and a treasured friend. His story is one of love, laughter, and an unquenchable zest for life.

John's memory will be held dear, not just in the milestones he reached or the successes he achieved, but in the everyday moments that he turned into treasures. May we all aspire to live with the same joy and passion that John did every single day.

Memorial services will be at 12 PM on Saturday, March 29 at the St. John's Catholic Church in Beloit. A rosary service will be held at 7 PM Friday at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. Friends may sign the register book from 9 AM until the rosary service begins on Friday at the funeral home, & the family will greet friends & family from 5 PM until the rosary service begins. Cremation has taken place. Memorials may be given to the Mitchell County Food Pantry or the St. John's Catholic Church.