Dueward Winford Rotramel

Dueward Winford Rotramel, aged 101 years, 9 months, passed away January 21, 2026, in his room at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon, Missouri.

Dueward, known as “Pug” to his wife’s family, “Beaver” to his coworkers at Braniff airlines, and “Rudy” to his many other friends, was born April 3, 1924, to James and Ida (nee Buford) Rotramel in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. He grew up in Siloam Springs, AR, and joined the U.S. Army Air Force in 1942, where he learned his trade as an aircraft mechanic. He left the service after WWII and married Beulah Hiatt in 1946 and rejoined the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, finishing his service as a Staff Sergeant.

In civilian life he worked for several airlines, including Southwestern, Braniff, and Air Midwest. Dueward was active as an adult in the Boy Scouts and was an active member of Willard Methodist Church in Willard, MO. He delivered for Meals on Wheels for 25 years.

He is survived by his two sons, Jim and John (wife Diane), five grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his three siblings, and his wife Beulah. He’ll be remembered by all for his positive attitude and friendly demeanor.

A memorial service will be held 12pm, Friday, May 1, 2026 at Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 South Hickory Street, Ottawa, Kansas, followed by a graveside service at Welda Cemetery located at 19735 SW Maryland Rd, Welda, Kansas.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Missouri Veterans Home Assistance League, 1600 S. Hickory Street, Mount Vernon, MO 65712.

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