John Francis Duma, lovingly known as Boomer to his friends and Poppy to his family passed away peacefully on June 24, 2023 at hospice. Fran his wife of 67 years was with him during his last days in the hospital and at hospice. All of his children and several grandchildren and family and friends had the privilege of being able to say goodbye during his last days.
Poppy lived his 91 years to the fullest and will be missed by family and friends. He touched so many lives as he always cared about the needs of others. He grew up in the Polish community in Kansas City, Kansas near St. Joseph’s church and was a proud “Dotte” his whole life. He played football at and graduated from Bishop Ward high school. After high school he joined the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean conflict. When he returned home he met the love of his life, Frances Diane Nelson and they were married on February 11, 1956. Their first child, Johnny was born in December of 1956 and they had twin girls, Pam and Patty 10 months later. Six years later Tracy came along and six years later Melanie Sue.
Boomer loved sports and coached his kids teams for many years. He also attended many sporting events of his grandchildren and was their biggest supporter. He was an avid KU basketball fan and also loved the Chiefs and Royals. He worked in the Wyandotte County court system as the Chief probation officer for many years and made many great friends throughout his career.
Anyone that knew him knew that he adored Frannie his wife and was devoted to his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and family. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He will be missed by all as he always put others first and was a great example of how to live and care for others.
He is survived by his wife Frances Duma, brother Frank Duma, children, John (Bonnie) Duma, Pam (Jeff) Holmberg, Patty Duma, Tracy (Tony) Wagner, Melanie (Terry) Crouse, grandchildren Megan Duma, Michael (Sarah)Duma, Clayton Holmberg, Rachel (Andrew) Strong, Jackson (Jordan) Wagner, Jordan Wagner, Courtney Wagner, Cody Crouse, Logan (Kayla) Crouse, Carson (Ashley) Crouse, McKenzie Crouse, Nathan Crouse, Maison and Ryan Youngs and several great grandchildren. His mother Ann Brinza, sister Dorothy Michalski and brother Willie Brinza preceded him in death.
In place of flowers, the family suggests a donation to St Judes.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.chapelhill-butler.com for the Duma family.
