Fred Allen Durnell

Fred Allen Durnell, 70, died Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2015, at his home, in Nevada, Mo. Fred was born on Feb. 9, 1945, in LaPorte, Ind., a treasured only child to Eunice (Hicks) and Fred T. Durnell. After the family relocated to Missouri, Fred attended high school at Bronaugh High School and helped his parents on the family farm. He was a member of the United States Air Force, serving stateside during the Vietnam era.

Fred married Carolyn (Duckering) Durnell on Feb. 12, 1966. To this union were born two sons, Michael Allen and Stephen Mark. Fred worked for more than 30 years for 3M Company.

He was known by his colleagues for his knack in striking up conversations and was always ready with a friendly greeting.

He loved to make people smile. Fred was generous to a fault and quick to lend a helping hand to those he saw in need.

Fred found the most pleasure in raising his boys. He loved cheering them on in their school and extracurricular endeavors. He taught his boys to hunt and fish, and he coached their American Legion baseball team season after season. With his children in school, Fred served his community by becoming a member of the Bronaugh school board during the 1980s. He gave many hours to make sure his sons had happy childhoods, and they did. Fred also loved his pets, and could be seen often alongside his faithful poodle, Cocoa. One was never far from the other. Not many knew Fred well, but those who did (both people and pets), surely loved him.

Preceding Fred in death were his parents, Fred T. and Eunice Durnell. Survivors include sons, Mike and wife, Suzan, Harwood, Mo., and Steve and Frederica Weaver, Milo, Mo.

Surviving grandchildren are Hali, Jenna and Tessa Durnell, along with Cheron Weaver and Ethen and wife, Caitlin Weaver.

A graveside service will be held for Fred A. Durnell on Sunday, Sept. 20, at 4 p.m. at Deerfield Cemetery, in Deerfield, Mo. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Vernon County Cancer Relief or Vernon County People for Pets in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.