Duane Kenneth Pulec, 69, of Bunker Hill, Kansas died Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at the Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Duane was born February 6, 1942 in Hays, Kansas, the son of Ernest and Elma (Woody) Pulec.  He grew up and attended schools in Emporia, Kansas and Stockton, Kansas.

Duane was a semi driver for many years driving all over the United States.  He lived in Stockton, Luray and then in 1980 he moved to the Bunker Hill area.  He and his longtime companion, Barbara J. Splawn, were ranchers together.  She preceded him in death on October 14, 2007.  Duane continued to run the ranch.  He also drove a dump truck, hauling materials for people in the local area.

Duane was a simple man that put family and friends first.  He was one to stop and help anyone at the drop of a hat.  He enjoyed traveling, gambling, being outdoors and taking care of animals and spending time with family and friends.

Surviving family include his son, Duane, Jr. and wife Nicole of Stockton, Kansas; daughter, Dana Pulec of Great Bend, Kansas; companion, Charlotte Hemmy of Salina, Kansas; brothers, Eugene Pulec and Lawrence Pulec both of Stockton, Kansas; sisters, Elda of Missouri and Arlene of Woodston, Kansas; five grandchildren, Marlin, Ashton, Taten, Camden, and Brianna.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son, Kenneth Pulec, and two brothers, Melvin Pulec and Eldon Pulec.

Celebration of Duane’s Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, December 19, 2011 at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell.  A private family committal will follow at the Bunker Hill Cemetery.  Visitation will be from noon to 8 PM Sunday, December 18, 2011 at the mortuary.  A memorial has been established as the Duane Pulec Memorial.  Contributions and condolences may be sent in care of Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.