Duane Eugene Koster

Duane Eugene Koster, 81, Garden City, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 10, 2025, surrounded by family after a long battle with cancer, leaving behind a life defined by hard work, faith, and a deep love for his family and community.
Born on October 25, 1943, in Cheney, Kansas, Duane was the son of August and Leota (Van Campen) Koster. He grew up in Garden City, Kansas, alongside his siblings Patricia (Bill) Bridges, Neil (Donna) Koster, Dale (Anita) Koster, and Marcia (Bob) Koster Carter.
Duane graduated from Garden City High School in 1961 and went on to earn his degree in Business Administration from Kansas State University in 1965. After graduation, he began his professional career with the John Deere Company in 1966, where his passion for agriculture and business took root.
In 1970, Duane took ownership of the local John Deere dealership, renamed as American Implement, which recently celebrated its 55th anniversary. His vision, leadership, and integrity helped grow the business into one of the most respected John Deere dealerships in the region. Duane's entrepreneurial spirit continued with the opening of Garden City Datsun in 1976, and as a partner in Finney County Feedyard, and several other local businesses.
Duane married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen Ann "Kathy" Smith, in 1964. Together they raised two sons Greg (Lili) Koster and Chad (Nanci) Koster, and built a strong, loving family rooted in faith, hard work, and laughter.
He was deeply involved in his community, serving as past president of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce, a past board member of the YMCA, and a past president of the Garden City Country Club. His commitment and love to the community lead to the purchase of the now current Southwind Golf and Dining.
Family was Duane's greatest joy. He was a proud grandfather to Blake (Sadie) Koster of Kearney, NE, Bradley (Delaney) Koster of Garden City, KS, Brittani (Troy) Johnson of Nashville, TN, Jared (Mollianne) Koster of Garden City, KS, and Lauren (Christian) Lynn of Garden City, KS. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren Demi, Cooper, Camden, Kyler, Brooks, and Duncan, who brought him endless smiles and pride.
Duane was preceded in death by his parents, August and Leota Koster; his brother Dale & wife Anita Koster; and two brothers-in-law Bill Bridges and Bob Carter. Duane lived life with purpose and gratitude – celebrating every moment, every friendship, and every Kansas State Wildcat victory. His generosity, wisdom, and example will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A celebration of Duane's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church in Garden City, with Rev. Jim Akins officiating. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City lead by John Deere Tractors. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 13, at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. Memorials may be made to Western Kansas Community Foundation (WKCF) for a Kansas State University student scholarship, or to Heartland Cancer Center of Garden City, both in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 412 N. 7th St., Garden City, Kansas 67846.