David Darrough

1943 - 2025

David Lee Darrough

April 15, 1943 - November 14, 2025

Mt. Hope, Kansas - David Lee Darrough, 82, of Mount Hope, Kansas, passed away on November 14, 2025. Born April 15, 1943, in Shidler, Oklahoma, he is survived by his children, Tammy, David (Maranda), Debbie (Andy), Kevin (Rachel), and Greg; 16 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; his brother, Paul Richardson; brothers-in-law, Jim Gaskill and Jerry (Barbara) Kempenich; nieces and nephews he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his mother, Wanda (Vaught) Richardson; sister, Rhonda Gaskill; nephew, James Gaskill, infant son, David Lee Darrough JR; and his beloved wife of 57 years, Patricia Ann Kempenich. After graduating high school, Dave proudly served in the United States Air Force for 8 years during the Vietnam War. He served with the 507th Air Police Squadron and with the 320 1st Security Police Squadron K-9 Unit. While on leave from military service, Dave met the love of his life, Patricia, and married her on July 24, 1965. They built a beautiful and joyful life together filled with dancing, gardening, travel and love. He was injured in the line of duty, a sacrifice that shaped the rest of his life. He carried out his duties with honor and pride earning multiple commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster.

Following his honorable discharge as a Sergeant, he worked for the United States Postal Service including serving as president of the American Postal Worker Union in Wichita for over 26 years. After retirement, he kept busy farming, traveling and enjoying time with family. After Pat's passing in 2022, Dave's devotion never faded - he honored her daily and stepped into every role she once carried. To his family, he remained a steady, funny, loyal, and loving presence. His days were centered around family, becoming the best friend to his kids and grandkids. His final days were filled with strength, perseverance, and love.

Viewing and visitation with the family will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, November 21, 2025 at Wulf-Ast Mortuary, 120 N. King, Mt. Hope, Kansas. Graveside service: 1 p.m., Saturday, November 22, 2025, Grandview Cemetery, 998 Grandview Rd., Kaw City, Oklahoma.