Duane Leon Ginter, 91, of Sabetha, Kansas, went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 11, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side. Duane fought the good fight and finished his race with faith, courage, and humility.
Duane was born on April 13, 1934, in Council Grove, Kansas, the firstborn son of Tommy and Ada Ginter. He graduated from Kansas State University in 1959, where he was a member of the first aviator class the university ever offered. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army for 30 years, completing two tours in Vietnam and one tour in Korea. During his distinguished military career, Duane flew over 5,000 hours, including more than 800 combat hours, demonstrating extraordinary dedication and bravery in service to his nation.
During his service in Vietnam, Duane was a member of the legendary gunship crews known as the Firebirds, originally Company A, 501st Aviation Battalion, who provided critical air support in Huey gunships. This elite unit played a vital role in protecting ground forces, and Duane was proud of the brotherhood and mission they shared.
After retiring from the Army, Duane returned home to Hiawatha, Kansas, where his desire to serve others continued. Alongside Carol Nigus, he helped establish a new program for Kansas Mental Health and Kansas Special Education, serving as a liaison for six years. That program remains active today, continuing Duane’s legacy by ensuring children receive the help and support they need.
Duane was also deeply involved in education in multiple capacities, including substitute teaching, driver’s education instruction, and Sunday school teaching, and he was loved by his students for his sense of humor and quick wit. He was additionally active in his community through the Lions Club, where he was a dedicated member for over 50 years. He received his 50-year pin in 2023 and served multiple terms as president, always leading with integrity and service. He was a charter member of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.
He is survived by his loving wife, Marty Ginter; his children Scott Ginter (Deb), Teri Carcano (Steve), and James Ginter. He was a proud grandfather to Stephanie, Natasha, Brian, and Tanner Ginter; Adele and Vince Carcano; and Payton, Claire, and Harper Ginter. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Keagan, Ashton, Camden, and Makennen Warra; Clayton, Kris, and Aubrey Hatfield; and Cooper Leon Ginter, who was named in his honor.
Duane will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, educator, servant leader, and man of unwavering faith. His life was one of service—to God, to his country, and to others—and his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.
A celebration of Duane’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, January 17, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home with Ron Nichols officiating. Cremation will follow services. Military honors a courtesy of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.
Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 until 5 p.m. Friday. The family will meet with friends on hour prior to services.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to either the Alzheimer's Association, Christian Military Fellowship (CMF) or Gideon’s International which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
