Dan O. Fruit

Dan O. Fruit of rural Emporia died on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at his home.  He was 85.

Dan was born on May 16, 1939, in Pratt, Kansas. He grew up on a farm northeast of Haviland, where he developed a deep appreciation for the land and hard work. He attended Haviland public schools, graduating in 1957, and went on to earn degrees from Pratt Junior College and K.S.T.C. (now Emporia State) in 1963. Dan proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1957 until his honorable discharge in 1960.

Dan built a 37-year career with Conoco Oil Company, beginning in 1965. His work took him across the United States and overseas, from Kansas City, Ponca City, and Alaska to Libya, Russia, and beyond. After retiring in 2002, he returned to his roots, taking up farming in the Emporia, Kansas, area, where he found joy in working the land and maintaining his equipment.

Dan took pride in his ability to keep things running smoothly, whether on the farm or in daily life. He cherished time with family, especially playing cribbage and dominoes, where his competitive spirit and sharp mind were always on display.

Dan was married to Mary Frances Kendall and Billye Authement, both of whom preceded him in death. In his later years, he shared his life with his beloved companion, Catherine Schmidt, whose presence brought him joy and friendship.

He is survived by his sons, Chester Thomas Fruit and Terry Scott (Patricia) Fruit; five grandchildren, Samantha (Jordan) McManus, Michael (Alyssa) Fruit, Nicholas Fruit, Margret Fruit, and Monica Fruit; four great-grandchildren; and his sister, Ruth Fowler. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Frank Fruit, and his sister, Marjory Fowler.

Dan was a man of faith and attended the Nazarene Church in Emporia. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home with the service at 10:30 a.m. Friday morning at the funeral home.  He will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Emporia, Kansas.  Memorial contributions to the Lyon County FFA can be sent in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, P.O. Box 175, Emporia, Kansas 66801.

His life was one of dedication—whether to his work, his land, or his loved ones. His family will always remember his strong will, hardworking hands, and the warmth he brought to every gathering.