Ward Steven Duley

Ward Steven Duley, 59, of Rensselaer, passed away peacefully Monday evening, September 21, 2020 with his family by his side. He was born in Rensselaer on March 29, 1961, the son of David Raymond Duley and Shirleyann (Scholz) Duley. He graduated from Rensselaer Central High School with the Class of 1979. While Ward was in school, he worked in the kitchen at Saint Joseph’s College. He enjoyed working there, especially when the Chicago Bears were practicing at St. Joe. He often told the story of how Walter Payton would joke with him and stole one of his shoes, only to return it later.

On June 21, 1980 he married the love of his life, Kathy Jean Huff, at the Church of God in Gifford. Together they raised two children, Holly and Jason.

Ward worked as a machine operator for Leggett & Platt (the former Sealy Springs) for many years. He loved being outdoors at his homeplace: mowing with his John Deere tractor, doing yardwork, and watching the nature and wildlife on his property. He was “Mr. Fix It”, as he had a knack for fixing just about anything, and he had an uncanny ability to predict the weather. Most of all, Ward cherished spending time with his family and his German shepherd, Maggy.

Ward is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Duley; two children, Holly Ammann (Trey) and Jason Duley (Kendra); one granddaughter, Aubrey Combs; his parents, David and Shirleyann Duley; one brother, Darin Duley (Tammy); and one sister, Sonia Duley (Paul).

He was preceded in death by one brother, Rex Duley; his in-laws, James and Bethel Huff; his maternal and paternal grandparents; and his German shepherd, Maggy.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, September 25, 2020 at 12 p.m. at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Pastor Gary Minard officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Franciscan Oncology, Franciscan Hospice, or the Gifford Church of God. Steinke Funeral Home of Renssselaer is honored to be handling the arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.