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George Duerksen Obituary
George was born on October 29, 1934 in St. Joseph, Missouri the son of George H. and Louise M. (Dalke) Duerksen. George was a Fulbright Scholar at the University of Kansas, studying in Australia. He earned his Bachelor's, Master's and Doctorate Degrees in Music Education and Music Therapy at the University of Kansas. George met Patricia Beers at KU and they married in 1961. Patricia survives of the home. George taught in public schools prior to accepting a professorship at Michigan State University. He returned to the University of Kansas in 1969 to teach and lead the Music Education and Music Therapy Department until his retirement in 2011. He travelled extensively, teaching and mentoring in Saudi Arabia, England, Greece, Korea, and Australia.
Other survivors include his son, M. Jeffrey (Rochelle) Duerksen and daughter, Cynthia (Daniel) Rood both of Lawrence; four grandchildren, Matty, Allison, Jeffrey, and Tyler; and sister, Patricia Hoover, Raleigh, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, and son, Joseph S. Duerksen.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to LMH Endowment Association to aid in Parkinson's treatment and research, or a charity of donor's choice. These can be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.
For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for George Duerksen
Linda Bryant (aka Miller)
March 21, 2025
Dr. Duerksen was one of my mentors when I was a doctoral student at KU. He was on my mind. Google brought me to his obituary. Sad news. Hope you´re okay Pat. Love, Linda
Ed Meyen
April 18, 2021
I remember George very well for his leadership in the School of Education and for his positive approach in relating to colleagues. He was responsive to school wide initiatives and was an excellent representative of the department. He had a nice way about himself and I enjoyed working with him.
Best Wishes to his family.
Ed Meyen
Alan Solomon
May 3, 2019
I have very fond memories of my experiences with George in the 1970s, first as a master's student and later as a doctoral student and teaching assistant. He touched the lives of many and will be remembered by them all. My condolences to Mrs. Duerksen and the rest of the family.
David Aber
May 3, 2019
Dr. Duerksen was a wonderful Professor of mine @ KU in the mid 1970's. I really appreciated his warm kindness and assistance as I worked towards my Music Therapy degree
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Ed Meyen
April 30, 2019
It was a pleasure to know George as a colleague during his later years in the School of Education. He was a strong advocate for his department and programs. His contributions to the mission of the School were greatly appreciated. This was reflected in his collaboration with other chairs and colleagues throughout the School. George was a valued representative of the University of Kansas community.
April 26, 2019
Dear Pat and family,
We were so sorry to hear of George's passing. You may not remember us, but my husband, Cruz, was a music education doctoral student at KU in the early 1970's. George was such a wonderful, kind man. He and Cruz were the same age and we remember coming to your home on several occasions.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Sincerely,
Margaret and Cruz Mendoza
Globe, Arizona
Lois Elmer
April 26, 2019
George was an excellent administrator and fair minded supervisor. He was the best person I have ever known to direct the flow of a meeting (not a skill to be taken lightly). He was an excellent musician. Our potluck and holiday celebrations included his wonderful piano playing and always brings a smile. I have missed him for his ready smile, continual support, and thoughtful abilities and skills since he retired from KU. I wish his family wonderful memories in addition to my thoughts and prayers.
Marvin and Kathy Pine
April 24, 2019
We enjoyed his company. Sympathy to his family. He will be missed. Marvin and Kathy Pine
Judy Heller
April 24, 2019
I will remember George as a devoted husband and father, a dynamite pianist, a caring administrator, and a good friend. He will be missed, but memories of him will always evoke pleasant and positive thoughts about his contributions to Lawrence, and especially to the KU community.
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Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services - Lawrence Chapel120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
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