Louis Duane Phelps, 66, of Centralia, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.
He was born on November 19, 1958, in Centralia, the son of Louis and Shirley (Douthit) Phelps. On June 13, 2003, in Jefferson County, he married Brenda Ervin, and she survives.
Duane worked at Hank’s Excavating for many years as a heavy equipment operator, and later owned and operated Phelps Excavating Services. He was a member of Local 520. He loved racecars, weightlifting, and tinkering in the garage. He loved animals, especially dogs.
In addition to his wife, Brenda Phelps, he is survived by four children, Christina Smith of Centralia, Candice Toft and husband Jason of Mt. Zion, Illinois, Tracey Meredith and husband Nick of Salem, Jacalyn Phelps of Centralia; four step-children, Michael Wylder, Jesse Wylder, Karissa Wylder, and Lucy Kay Wylder, of Centralia; and two bonus children, Nate Hill and Travis Hopkins; 18 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and brother, David “Taco” Phelps.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Shirley; grandson, Rocky Smith; special brother, Doug Gruen; and beloved dog, Bam Bam.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation rites for Duane have been accorded, and a memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Osborn Funeral Home in Dix. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, May 9, 2025, at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.
