Barbara L. Duncan

Barbara L. Duncan, 95, of Overland Park, Kansas passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. She was born on December 17, 1929, in Arkansas City, Kansas to John and Leata (Borel) Wahler.

Barbara credited the Dale Carnegie Library in Ark City for her lifelong love of reading. She often recounted how, as a young girl, she walked to the library and routinely checked out as many books as she could. She was even known to combine her enjoyment of tree climbing and reading, sometimes reading library books in the trees. She made certain her daughters had opportunities to read and learn. Trips to the library were common, including summer reading programs at the local library. Later in life, Barbara was especially well-read in areas of law and the courts.

Barbara met her husband, Don Duncan, in High School. They were married June 6, 1948. Their family included two daughters, and for many years, an English Springer Spaniel. Don’s career took the family to Missouri, Nebraska, Montana, and back to Kansas. Barbara and Don retired to Tucson, Arizona. Barbara took classes and became a Master Gardner. She served passionately on her HOA Board and was an early adopter and promoted the first efforts to focus on native plants and water conservation.

As an excellent, experienced legal secretary and executive secretary, Barbara quickly found employment wherever the family moved. Her thirst for knowledge served her well. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Kansas in her 40’s. She was employed in the State of Kansas Department of Administration, and earned a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Kansas. She worked in health benefits administration.

Barbara was an accomplished athlete throughout her life. In her 50’s she won first place in the women’s 50-54 Tinman Triathlon. In her 60’s she shot a hole-in-one at Tucson National Golf Course. In her 70’s she enjoyed golfing and tennis. When there were no older women with whom she could play tennis, she successfully competed with the men’s team. She loved to ride her bike so much that, in addition to completing long-distance cycling tours from the Northeast to the West coast, she rode numerous paths and trails around Tucson regularly. Her keen sense of adventure took her on various trips. Among them were a burro ride for an overnight stay in the Grand Canyon, and a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Barbara also enjoyed taking art classes, and painting.

She is survived by two daughters, Cindy Duncan of Tucson, granddaughter, Laurel Hale (Joseph), Tacoma Washington and great grandchildren, Nova, Audrey, Alex, and Elene. Lisa Janati (Jack Stemm) of Overland Park, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and siblings John Wahler, Elene Yarborough, and Loren Gene Wahler.

A private burial will take place at Parker Cemetery in Arkansas City, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Arkansas City, KS Public Library, 120 E. 5th Ave, Arkansas City, KS 67005, or CDON Bird Sanctuary, Tucson. For donations to CDON Bird Sanctuary, please email chazity@missionmanagement.biz or call Chriss at Mission Management at 520-797-3224.

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