Duane I. Phillips
Duane Ira Phillips, 79, passed away at the Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home in Kearney, Neb., on July 22, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, stories, and friendships that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Duane was born in a farmhouse near Orafino, Neb. on October 1, 1946, to Kenneth and Illma Phillips. From an early age, he developed a love for the outdoors and a strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life. Duane graduated from Scappoose High School in Scappoose, Oregon, in 1965. Shortly thereafter, he proudly answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy in January 1966. He served honorably until November 1969, including a one-year deployment to Vietnam. Duane was deeply proud of his military service, and his love for his country remained a defining part of his character throughout his life.
Following his military service, Duane returned home to Southwest Nebraska and built a life centered on hard work, family, and community. Throughout the years, he farmed south of Cambridge, worked in the oil fields, and later retired from Twin Valley Public Power District. Retirement, however, did not slow him down for long. He went on to serve as farm manager for Witte Farms, his insight was instrumental in directing his employees when to plant the corn, when to pick the corn. But he also extended his services to include checking cattle, keeping the prairie dog population in check, and “watching the potatoes grow through the back of his eyelids.” He may or may not have taken out his driver’s side mirror more than harming a hair on any prairie dog.
Duane found great joy in the outdoors. Hunting was one of his lifelong passions, and he loved sharing it with family and friends. He also took great pride in watching his children and grandchildren compete in sports and treasured every opportunity to cheer them on. Though he’s moved on to better hunting grounds, the lessons he taught, the belly laughs he shared, and the memories he created will live on through those who loved him.
On August 31, 1971, Duane was united in marriage to Barbara “Barb” Witte at Saint John’s Catholic Church. Together they built a loving family and were blessed with four children.
Duane was a member of Saint John’s Catholic Church, American Legion Post 199, where he served as Commander, and VFW Burton’s Bend Post 9357 in Holbrook, Nebraska.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Illma Phillips, and his brothers, Preston Phillips, Marvel Phillips, and Robert Phillips.
Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of nearly 55 years, Barb Phillips; his sister, Jeanette Peters of Nikiski, Alaska; and his children, Angela Annon of Norton, Kansas, Timothy (Michelle) Phillips of Wylie, Texas, Lynnette (Michael) Vasey of Winston-Salem, N.C., and Trinette (Troy) Monzon of Lincoln, Neb.
He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Noah (Makinsey) Thomas, Taylynn Annon, Emily Phillips, Barren “Bear” Phillips, Fletcher Vasey, Henson Vasey, Zelda Vasey, Isabell (Josh “Jacob”) Hain, Keagan (Maycee) Monzon, and Gavin Monzon; and his great-grandchildren, Krew Thomas and Kolt Thomas, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Duane never met a stranger. He was known for his gift of gab, and his willingness to volunteer others to lend a helping hand. His family will forever remember his sense of humor and the immense pride he took in those he loved.
Visitation was held on Sunday afternoon, July 26, 2026 from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM at Lockenour-Jones Mortuary in Cambridge. A Rosary was recited for Duane, following the visitation. Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:00 AM on Monday morning, July 27, 2026 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cambridge with Father Kenneth Wehrs celebrating. Burial with full military honors followed services.
Monetary Donations can be made in his honor to VFW Burton’s Bend Post 9357 in Holbrook, Nebraska. Online condolences may be left at lockenour.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Lockenour-Jones Mortuary of Cambridge.
