Duane Westfall

Duane Westfall, born in Killeen, Texas on July 30, 1958, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, service, and countless memories shared with those who knew him.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at Levita Cemetery with Pastor Monty Vanhorn officiating.

Growing up in a military family he had the opportunity to live in many places around the world including Alaska, which he was especially fond of.

Duane graduated from Somerville High School and enlisted in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged after suffering an injury early in his military career. He then went on to attend vocational school. Throughout his life, he developed many talents and interests, always finding something new to learn, create, tinker with and enjoy.

Duane married Bonnie Borman in 1988 in Brenham, Texas. and they shared a deep love for horticulture, and operated a plant nursery business in Somerville, Temple and Levita, a place they loved and called home. He also loved fishing and enjoyed the peace and relaxation that came from spending time outdoors.

Family was especially important to Duane. He looked forward to family holidays and cherished time spent gathering together with those he loved. He shared many wonderful experiences, stories, and adventures with his many cousins and friends, creating memories that will continue to be treasured for years to come.

Service to his community was also an important part of Duane's life. He proudly served on several volunteer fire departments starting as early as high school and later became the Fire Chief of the Levita Fire Department for a number of years. He was also a member of the American Legion Post in Gatesville. Duane was a patriotic man and took great pride in his country.

Duane's love of travel continued throughout his career with FEMA, where he worked as part of the Disaster Relief and Recovery Operations Team. His job allowed him to see many parts of the country while meeting people and making friends and memories along the way.

Duane had many hobbies and collections that reflected his unique personality. He especially enjoyed his gun and knife & book collections. Duane was a very social person who never met a stranger, he treasured his many friendships and loved getting together with friends each day at “Somewhere Else,” where laughter, conversation, and good company were always part of the occasion.

He was preceded in death by his late wife, Bonnie Westfall, and his parents, Pat and Rose Ann Westfall, along with many special aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Duane leaves behind many people who loved him, including his two sisters, Patricia Westfall of Temple and Janis Westfall Davis of Dallas; nieces, Shelley Buerger of Temple and Sherrine Moore (Tim Moore) of Bryan; nephew, Jack Davis (Liz) of Houston; great-nieces and great-nephews, Travis Dillon Warrick (Emma), Brianna Becker, McKenzie Fikes (Matt), Bentley Zemanek, Luke Davis and Ellie Davis; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Duane will be remembered for his uniquely contagious laugh, his patriotism, his knowledge of plants and flowers, and, most of all, his love for family and friends. He was a gifted storyteller and could recall most of the family's history. His stories, laughter, friendships, and the many experiences he shared with those around him will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

His life was filled with places traveled, family gathered, friendships made, and memories that will remain forever. Duane will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.