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Memorial Keepers (1)
Lienkaemper Funeral Chapel-Ontario
Earl Dean Benear
January 14th, 1954 - March 3rd, 2025
Earl Benear, 71, of Vale, Oregon, passed away on March 3, 2025. He was born on January 14, 1954, in Dodge City, Kansas, to Robert and Jo Benear.
A gifted athlete, Earl graduated from Hutchinson High School in Kansas, where he left an indelible mark on track and field, setting a state record with 54 first-place medals. His talents extended to basketball, earning him a full-ride scholarship to the University of Kansas.
In 1972, Earl married the love of his life, his high school sweetheart Barbara Nuzum on November 18, 1972. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. They were blessed with four children: Matt, Liz (affectionately known as “Princess, the Favorite”), Andy, and John.
In 1983, Earl and his family moved to Nampa, Idaho, where he founded Duke of Earl Pest Control. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication were evident in all aspects of his life. Beyond his work, Earl was an avid outdoorsman, spending countless hours hunting and fishing, always drawn to the peace and beauty of nature.
A proud Kansan at heart, Earl had a lifelong love for his Kansas City teams—the Chiefs and the Royals—and ensured his children carried on that passion.
Earl will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his kindness, and his infectious zest for life.
A loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend, he touched the lives of so many with his warmth, humor, and strong work ethic. His legacy is one of love, laughter, and countless happy memories.
Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jo Benear. He is survived by his brothers, Richard (Pat) of Boise, ID, and Steven of Nampa, ID; his children, Matt (Erica) of Fruitland, ID; Liz (Jeremy) Nixon of San Clemente, CA; Andy (Sonya) of Kuna, ID; and John (Ashley) of Scottsdale, AZ; his grandchildren, Conner and Kaylee Benear of Fruitland, ID; Madison and Isaac Nixon of San Clemente, CA; Sienna and Quinn Benear of Scottsdale, AZ; his loyal dog, Duke; and many extended family members and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.
A private memorial service will be held for immediate family.
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We Entrusted Earl Benear's Care To
Lienkaemper Funeral Chapel-Ontario
For over 100 years, the Lienkaemper Funeral Chapel has served the Ontario, Oregon, community with professional, compassionate care. Our story begins in 1907 when the Peterson family, who owned a furniture store in Ontario, helped with funeral arrangements and sold caskets from the store’s basement. Over the years, the business has grown and had a number of owners, partnerships and names. Among them was our current namesake, the Lienkaemper family, who purchased the family funeral home with the mission of helping families in the Ontario community. ...
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