Steven "Beak" Duane Hunter

Steven “Beak” Duane Hunter, 75, of Stockton, Kansas, passed away on October 5, 2026, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas. He was born on July 13, 1951, in Stockton to Duane and Betty (Glendening) Hunter. On November 17, 1995, he married Tammy Boland in Stockton.

Beak grew up in Stockton and graduated from Stockton High School in 1969. He continued his education in Salina and at Fort Hays State University. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1977 to 1979.

Throughout the years, Beak held a variety of jobs and was a familiar face around the Stockton community. He worked for Brad Waller at Waller Auto, Atwill Plumbing, and Blaine Baxter. He also worked at End of the Line in Stockton and later in Alton, Kansas, for Gene Boland at the dog kennel.

Beak was perhaps best known around town for his tie-dye shirts, which reflected his colorful personality and his lifelong love of music. He enjoyed creating tie-dye pieces, including guitar cases, and was an avid collector of music and memorabilia. A devoted Grateful Dead fan, Beak attended more than 100 of their concerts over the years. He also enjoyed cooking and baking and was always happiest when surrounded by the music and things he loved.

One of Beak’s greatest qualities was his devotion to Tammy. He was a constant source of support throughout her years of dialysis, faithfully standing beside her and caring for her along the way.

Beak was a member of the former United Methodist Church in Stockton, where he generously shared his love and knowledge of music by running the church sound system for 17 years.

Beak is survived by his wife, Tammy Hunter of the home in Stockton; and his niece and nephew, Donna and Cory Garcia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Duane and Betty Hunter; step-son, Jesse Stroup; step-daughter, Christy Nonamaker; and sister, Brenda (Roque) Garcia.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at 2PM at the funeral home in Stockton. Inurnment will follow at the Stockton Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses and may be sent to 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.