Duane Leon Covert, 87, of LaHarpe, IL, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at the LaHarpe-Davier Health Care Center.

Duane was born in Raritan, IL on November 21, 1928 to Cecil and Wanda Allen Covert. Duane married Willa Ann Byers on February 2, 1951 and they were married 65 years.

He graduated from LaHarpe High School in 1946. He served in the Navy Reserves for 4 years. Duane was a lifelong member of the LaHarpe United Methodist Church and served on mission trips to Haiti and Coasta Rica. He loved traveling and spent time traveling the country as well as visiting Australia and Europe. He was a Master Mason, member of the NRA, Illinois Corn Growers, Republican National Committee and a member of the Hancock County Beef Producers.

Farming was both a hobby and career for Duane. He took pride in being a caretaker of the land and was passionate about conservation. The Covert family was named Illinois Conservation Family of the Year. He was happiest when he was outside with his friends and family and loved teaching his grandchildren about nature and farming.

He is survived by his wife, Willa Ann Covert of LaHarpe, one son, Alan (Teresa) Covert of Blandinsville, IL, one daughter, Cathy (Jay) Jones of LaHarpe, two sisters, Luan Dunham and Carol (Paul) Trompeter both of Fort Myers, FL, five grandchildren, Jackson Jones, Jesse (Renae) Jones, Jensen (fianc Meghan) Jones, Cassie (Royce) Dejaynes and Chris Covert, several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Masonic Rites will be held at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, February 18, 2016 followed by visitation with the family until 7:00 p.m. at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe. Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 19, 2016 at the funeral home with Rev. Jim Clayton officiating. Burial will be held at the LaHarpe Cemetery. A gathering and meal will follow the service at the LaHarpe United Methodist Church, all are welcome to attend and celebrate Duanes life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made the LaHarpe United Methodist Church or the LaHarpe-Davier Health Care Center. The family would like to thank the staff at the LaHarpe-Davier Health Care Center and Hospice Compassus for their care and dedication.