Lucas John (Duke) Wellen

Lucas John (Duke) Wellen, born on May 24, 1963, in Elkhart, Kansas, to Gordon Eugene and Carolea Virgil (Griffin) Wellen, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, in Liberal, Kansas. A lifelong cowboy, Duke embraced a life spent outdoors and among livestock, reflecting his deep passion for the natural world and its animals. His journey came to a close as it was filled with the simple joys that he cherished throughout his life.

Duke’s early education began at Elkhart Grade School, then went on to Elkhart Junior/High School, where he laid the foundation for a bright future. He furthered his studies by attending Fort Scott Community College and Oklahoma Panhandle State University, proudly earning his Bachelor of Arts degree. These years were formative for Duke, instilling not only knowledge but also a spirit of hard work and perseverance that he would carry throughout his life.

Duke loved to train and hunt with his coyote dogs. He has enjoyed doing it with his dad from a very young age. Duke had a passion for the Western world. He loved to compete in the arena, but also loved going to help with cattle in the pasture. He was the true definition of a cowboy; he team roped, rode bareback broncs, rode bulls, and steer wrestled. At the age of nineteen, Duke won the YNFR World Steer Wrestling Championship and showed grit and determination. He won All Around Cowboy at several Youth Rodeos over the years, and gave it his all and received many saddles and buckles for his triumphs.

Duke was a very outgoing and loyal friend to those around him. He was always there to lend a hand and help. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for being a good man and friend.

Duke had wholesome faith in Jesus Christ and accepted him as his Lord and Savior. He was a true cowboy through and through, and has finally made his way to the heavenly gates. His well-worn boots have found their ultimate rest. His faith served as his unwavering guide, leading him home to eternal peace. Rest easy, cowboy, your earthly journey is complete, and your spirit now rides free across fields of glory.

Duke’s legacy continues through his mother, Carolea Wellen, of Elkhart, Kansas, and his two brothers, Clayton Wellen and companion Genie, also of Elkhart, Kansas, and Ace Wellen and his wife Tammy of Brush, Colorado. He is remembered fondly by his three nephews, CJ, Nicholas, and Kyle Wellen, and great-nephew, Cory Wellen, who were an essential part of his life and whom he adored.

He is preceded in death by his father, Gordon Eugene Wellen, and a niece, Cassi Lea Wellen. Their memories serve as a reminder of the love and bonds that tied families together, even in times of loss.

A memorial has been established for the Church at Jake's Barn, in the care of Robson Funeral Home, P.O. 606, Elkhart, Kansas 67950. Make checks payable directly to the Church at Jake's Barn. 

A book signing will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 12 P.M. until 5 P.M. and on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 10 A.M. until 7 P.M., with family receiving friends from 4 P.M. until 6 P.M. at Robson Funeral Home of Elkhart. 

A graveside service to honor Duke’s life will take place at Elkhart Cemetery, Elkhart, Kansas, on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. with Pastor Jess Lee presiding. 

Duke Wellen will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His love for nature and livestock, his unwavering loyalty to his family, and his enduring spirit as a cowboy will always be remembered.