Dennis Duncan

Dennis Duncan, 81, of Hugoton, Kansas, and formerly of Pampa, passed away on October 12, 2024, in Wichita, Kansas.

Services will be 2:00 PM, Friday, October 18, 2024, at the Carmichael-Whatley Colonial Chapel with Rev. Thacker Haynes, officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors and Crematory. 

Dennis will be available for viewing from 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Thursday, and 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM on Friday at the funeral home.

Dennis was born on May 27, 1943, in Quanah, Texas, to James and Tressie Duncan. As a young boy, he and his family moved frequently due to his father’s job with the railroad. They eventually settled in Pampa, TX, where he graduated high school in 1961. Following graduation, Dennis participated in rodeo competitions as a roper until he joined the workforce. He served four years as an infantryman in the National Guard, where he was recognized as an expert sharpshooter and honorably discharged in 1965. In 1964, Dennis met Achsa Kelley, and they married on July 23, 1965, in Pampa, TX.

When Dennis married Achsa, he embraced a daughter, Misti Kimberlin, whom he loved as his own, later welcoming his biological son Barry in 1966 and gaining daughter Alice in 1989. Despite his work taking him all over the U.S., he prioritized raising and caring for the kids whenever he was home, ensuring they felt loved and supported.

Dennis worked for Cabot Carbon Corporation for a few years before starting his long career as a welder and later as an inspector. He spent over 25 years welding in the pipeline sector of the oil and gas industry, often with his wife by his side as his welder helper. His attention to detail and expertise enabled him to transition into an inspector role, where he spent many years inspecting gas lines and compressors before retiring. Throughout his career, Dennis had the opportunity to travel to various states, including California, Colorado, New York, and Wyoming, among others.

Music was a significant part of Dennis's life. He played in high school and continued to pursue this passion after graduation. He excelled at the piano and bass guitar, often performing with bands around Pampa, TX, before traveling for work. Dennis frequently played the piano at family gatherings and holidays, bringing joy to those special moments.

Dennis was a brilliant man with quick wit and a knack for problem-solving, admired by many youngsters for his mentorship and leadership. He was a stern yet caring figure, always providing valuable advice and support. Respected by all, Dennis was tough on his young friends and family because he genuinely wanted to see them succeed in both their careers and in life. With a loving heart and a playful spirit, he was as ornery as ever, and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; James Berry Duncan and Tressie Mae Savage Duncan; brothers, J.B. Duncan, Calvin Duncan, and Hubert “Tiny” Duncan; sisters, Edna Steele, Frances Knight, and Janice Hyatt; a grandson, Dustee Odell; a great grandchild, Tulsa Cullison; and daughter-in-law, Lori Duncan. 

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Achsa Kelley Duncan of Hugoton, KS; son, Barry Dee Duncan of Hugoton, KS; two daughters, Misti Kimberlin Jones and husband Greg of Woodward, OK, and Alice Wilson and husband Ricky “Bruno” of Pflugerville; 17 grandchildren, Tashina and Matt Cullison, Dawson Duncan and companion Melissa, Ashley Duncan, Hazen and Randa Duncan, Britney and James Martinez, Destanee Bohl, Easton and April Bohl, Ricky Jr. Wilson, April Wilson, Tyler Wilson, Jeremy and Kim Wilson; 25 great-grandchildren, Gavin, Kennadee, Teegan, Taylor, Maverick, Tenleigh, Carson, Kylah, Kaelynn, Jax, Layla, Hayden, Elliana, Emitt, Aryn, Judah, Benaiah, Lakynn, Oaklee, Kinslee, Rhyder, Dashia, Anyssa, Tatum, and Mallory; nieces and nephews, Sherry and Lee Gray, John, and Valerie Duncan; and many other extended family.