Richard Duane Rose

A Visitation for Richard Duane Rose, Lawrence, KS is set from 6:00 ~ 8:00 pm, Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence, KS. A Memorial service is set for 11:00 am, Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary, Lawrence, KS. An inurnment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Lawrence, KS.

Richard Duane Rose, age 81, passed away peacefully, at his home, surrounded by family, on April 22, 2026.

Richard was born on April 1, 1945, in a little log cabin home, in Wheaton, Kansas, to Leona Kenworthy Rose and Albert Rose. He was one of ten children.

The family moved to Linwood, Kansas where he attended school; graduating high school, in 1963. While in school, he was involved in numerous clubs. Along with many sports; track, football, and basketball, and earned letters in these events.

He entered the Navy upon graduation and served in Sicily, Italy, before returning to the United States, to begin a long career as a policeman. He worked 1 year with the KU Police dept. on campus, and then began his career with the Lawrence Police Dept. He worked as a traffic officer for nearly a decade, including motorcycle duty. He was then transferred to be the training officer for the LPD in 1980. Officer Rose had the responsibility of coordinating numerous twelve-week police academies, as a police instructor. He also trained personnel on such things as firearms, physical fitness, and intoximeter use. Another very important facit of his job was conducting background investigations on new police recruits. He was also a part of the Ride-Along Program, Police Chaplain Program, Boy's Club Law & Order Squad, to just name a few. He served on the Traffic Safety Commission for numerous years, and the State Faternal Order of Police as secretary at one point. He held several seats in the past with the local F.O.P. Lodge #2. Serving as past President for several years. He was a past member of the Eagles club of Lawrence. He was also a member of the Blue Knights and Jaycees Club. He was known as "L38" at the police dept., until his retirement on March 1995.

He married Joyce Ann Canary in Nov. 1963, and they had 3 children from that union. One boy and two girls. Sadly they lost their son Chris Allen, two days after he was born on July 13, 1966. Chris has been greatly missed ever since. They later divorced, but remained friends and were both very proud of their daughters, and their achievements in life and careers.

On Sept.14,1984, Richard married Rhonda Christie Harper. They enjoyed fishing, traveling, watching western shows on TV (even if they were reruns they had seen numerous times before), and riding around on their motorcycle until he was no longer able; due to Parkinson's disease. Richard is survived by his wife, Rhonda, of the home. Two daughters, Tina Renee and spouse Harold Roseberry of Humboldt, Kansas, and Tracy Ann Rose of KC, Missouri. Grandchildren Katie and spouse Chris Lynn; Webb City, Mo. Connor Roseberry and spouse Kayle of Parkvill, Mo. 2 great grandchildren; Parker and Presley and 2 more to be born in June and Sept. 2026. Richard was so proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He attempted to attend as many of his grankid's sports events, school plays, band and music concerts, and proms that he could and he was one of their biggest supporters.

He made a point to always visit on Halloween, and be a part of their "trick-or-treating" activities. He really got a ball out of seeing them in their Halloween costumes.

Richard is also survived by several siblings; Alberta, David, Darlene, Jean, and Joanne. Along with numerous nieces, nephews, friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son Chris Allen; and siblings, Delbert, Jim, Jack, and Don.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Lawrence Humane Society or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.