Donald Lutz

Don Lutz, age 84, of Lane, Kansas, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Parkview Heights in Garnett.

Donald Eugene Lutz was born May 24, 1941, on the farm near Harris, Kansas, the second of four children born to Eugene and Theonilla (Duethman) Lutz. Don was known as "Butch" to his family, from the time he was a young boy. He grew up alongside his three sisters, attending Emerald Public School #26 through eighth grade, and later graduated from Garnett High School with the Class of 1959.

Don served his country honorably for three years in the United States Army, stationed in Germany. He proudly enlisted alongside his close friend Gary Hermreck, and the two completed their service together. Following his military service, he attended Automotive Body School in Kansas City and went on to work as a relief man in the Paint Department at the Ford Plant in Claycomo, Missouri, where he retired after 30 years of dedicated service.

On April 26, 1969, Don married Joyce Hestand in Coffeyville, Kansas. Their love story began through a family connection, Joyce was college roommates with Don's cousin Donna, and the two officially met at Donna's wedding. Don and Joyce built a life together over 56 years, rooted in faith, family, and hard work.

Though his career was in automotive work, Don's heart was always on the farm. Farming was more than a job, it was his passion. He took great pride in raising crops, hay, and cattle. Don was also an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting turkey, deer, and pheasant.

He had a deep bond with his animals, especially his red heeler, Curly, who was always by his side, eager to greet Joyce and Don with a tail wag and ready to take on the day.

Don valued time with family above all else. He loved attending family events and cherished time with his nieces and nephews, many of whom spent extended summers at the farm, making memories that would last a lifetime.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law, Patty and Don Penson; his nephew, Steven Penson; and his brother-in-law, Keith Slagle.

Don is survived by his wife, Joyce Lutz, of the home; sisters Alice and Jake Lickteig and Betty Slagle; Many loving nieces and nephews; and many friends and neighbors.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, July 25, 2025, at St. Patrick's Cemetery, Emerald, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick's Cemetery and left in care of Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.feuerbornfuneral.com