Duane Eugene Thomas, 72, of David City, Nebraska (formerly of Callaway, NE), passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He was born on December 15, 1953, in Broken Bow, Nebraska, to Eugene and Leona (Beckoff) Thomas. He graduated from Broken Bow High School with the Class of 1972. On February 2, 1974, Duane was united in marriage to the love of his life, Candace in Callaway, Nebraska. Four children were blessed to this union: Dallas, Melissa, Jodi, and Stephanie.

Duane worked for area farmers early in their marriage, before starting his career as a mechanic. He purchased the old Callaway Creamery, transforming it into a mechanic shop. He later moved his business into a new building, where he worked until he sold his shop in 2012. He then ran a small engine repair shop in his garage, where he continued working until his retirement in 2022. A self-taught mechanic, Duane was incredibly good at his job, and his skill was admired by those who knew him. After retirement, Duane and Candy spent the next three years traveling in their camper. They explored many parks in Nebraska, and enjoyed the warmer temperatures of Texas in the winter. They later settled in David City, Nebraska.

He had a remarkable gift for all things mechanical. It was said that when cars drove by, Duane could tell the make and model, without even looking. He also loved old tractors and restored many of them over the years. In his younger years, he was a longtime member of the Seven Valleys Rodeo Association and served on the Seven Valleys Museum Board, remaining connected to the people and places that mattered to him.

Duane never knew a stranger. He enjoyed visiting with friends, playing cards, and never missed an opportunity to be with his morning coffee crew. He valued being outdoors and found happiness in simple and meaningful pleasures. He loved to fish and go camping, first taking his children on camping trips and later sharing those same experiences with his grandchildren. His family meant everything to him, and he treasured the memories he got to make with his grandchildren the most.

Survivors include his wife, Candace Thomas of David City; children, Dallas (Dayna) Thomas of Ansley, Nebraska, Melissa (Mitch) Muhs of Omaha, and Jodi (Jason) Bruegger of Schuyler; grandchildren, Carson and Aiden Muhs, Mikah and Zayne Mittleider, Brecken and Everleigh Bruegger, Jessi, Jimmie, and Josie Carr, and Joel (Shannon) Poland; great-grandchild, Lilah Poland; brother, Dean (Brenda) Thomas, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Duane was preceded in death by his daughter, Stephanie Thomas; parents, Eugene and Leona Thomas; In-laws, Irvin and Gladys Spangler, and sisters, Debbie, Diana, and Mary.

A time of sharing for friends and family will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Callaway.

Graveside Services will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Callaway.

There will be a luncheon to follow at the Callaway Senior Center in Callaway.

Casual dress is encouraged, as Duane preferred overalls to all other attire and would never ask others to dress up on his behalf.

Memorials are kindly suggested to the family for later donation to the Seven Valleys Museum and the Callaway Senior Center.

Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Callaway is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com