“Blackie,” Duane N. Beth, 90, of Independence, passed away November 25, 2014. Duane was born outside of Springfield, MO, on June 15, 1924. He was raised by his mother, Ollie Beth Boone. He joined the United States Army, becoming a rifle expert, and a veteran of WWII. Throughout his many years living in the Kansas City area, Duane worked for KCPL. Later in life, he owned several taverns such as The Sugar Inn in Sugar Creek, making lifelong friends along the way. A devoted Catholic and loving father, he lived for moments being surrounded by his family. Duane is survived by one brother, J. R. Boone; his wife of 45 years, Antoinette Beth, of the home. He has seven children; Phillip Beth, Sharon Brown, Steve Beth and daughter-in-law Tamera Beth, Monica Johnston, Randall Hearn, Katrina Miller, Nicole Ford and son-in-law Chris Ford. He is survived by 15 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.

Services for Duane will be held at 11:00 am at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. 2200 N. Blue Mills Rd. Independence, MO 64058. Visitation froM11:00-12:00; Mass following at 12:00.