SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO) — A grain elevator near Humboldt was having trouble keeping up with all the trucks dropping off corn Monday. That’s because 14 harvesters were working on Duane Struck’s farm at once, and the trucks just kept coming.
Duane Struck, known as Butch to his friends, planted this field in the spring.
The corn has absorbed the sun, and now its friends are doing the last work left behind.
“He had a little over 500 acres of corn that we’re putting out for him today. He’s got 14 combines, probably as many trucks and grain carts that they’re combining for him today,” said friend Jeff Kapperman.
When word got out, so many people wanted to come and help that they had to turn people away.
“Butch was everybody’s friend. Whenever somebody needed something, Butch was there to do it; I mean, no questions asked. He showed up,” Kapperman said.
Butch was a big part of this community, serving on almost every community board, from the fire department to the elevator to the city. Butch passed away in June, a loss that hit many as they never thought when Duane planted the seed in the spring, he wouldn’t be around to reap his harvest.
“He was my best friend and many times when I was struggling or I had some problems Duane showed up to help me so it was simple. We talked almost every day and it was a real shock when he passed away but we all hope that is in a better place,” Kapperman said.
Struck also planted soybeans. His friends and neighbors have already harvested them.
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