Myong Won Dupras

Myong was born on December 28, 1936, in Seoul, Korea, to parents In Su Song and Nam Sun Maeng. As a new bride, she immigrated to the United States in September 1961, beginning a new life defined by determination, resilience, and grace.

Arriving in America with limited English and little formal education, Myong became a self-made and extraordinary homemaker whose energy, kindness, and unwavering dedication formed the foundation of her family. While adapting to a new country and culture, she raised four children born in a span of six years, a testament to her perseverance and strength.

As a military wife, Myong spent more than 15 years traveling the world with her husband and four small children in tow. From Japan to Europe and across numerous U.S. military bases, she built a home wherever the Army sent them, navigating constant moves with resilience, adaptability, and quiet strength. These years of global travel shaped her independence and resourcefulness and deepened her commitment to family. Eventually, she and her family settled in Leavenworth, Kansas, following her husband’s final duty station at Fort Leavenworth and his retirement from the U.S. Army.

Myong’s strong desire to “get things done” reflected both her exceptional work ethic and her deep devotion to supporting her growing family. Myong was first employed at the Fort Leavenworth Movie Theater, where she was hailed as the best popcorn popper behind the counter. She later transferred to the Bell Hall dining facility at the prestigious Command and General Staff College, cooking in the kitchen and helping serve thousands of soldiers each day earning the Proficiency Award several times and always known for her twinkling positivity. She then worked at the Fort Leavenworth Commissary as a grocery bagger, famous for her welcoming smile and kind compliments to everyone she met. Following her husband’s Army retirement, Myong was employed at Hallmark Cards in Leavenworth, Kansas, where she worked for ten years and was honored with the Exceptional Performance Award. She was also a devoted member of the Korean Methodist Church, where she served humbly as a deacon in charge of the Women’s Missionary Union.

Myong is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, James (Jim) Leonard Dupras, CSM (Ret.), from Marquette, MI, with whom she shared a life built on love, respect, and mutual support; her four children: Jeaney Garcia, of Albuquerque, NM (husband Rich; sons Diego and Santiago); James Dupras, of Payson, UT (wife Wendy; sons Hunter and Chris; daughters Courtney, Alexis, and Madison); Cindy Habluetzel, of Clay Center, KS (husband Jerry; son Aaron; daughters Lindsey, Laynie, and Aubrey); and Billy Dupras, of Lansing, KS (daughter Tara) and life partner Adyna. She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Myong Won Dupras will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who faced life’s challenges with courage, strength, humility, and grace. Her love, generosity, and enduring spirit will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 28, visitation at 3:00 p.m. and services beginning at 4:00 p.m., at R. L. Leintz Funeral Home, 4701 10th Avenue, Leavenworth, Kansas 66048.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at Good Shepherd Hospice, with special appreciation to Elena Tum, an extraordinary hospice nurse, for the compassionate and loving care provided. They are also deeply thankful to the leadership and congregation of the Leavenworth Korean Methodist Church, especially Pastor Jin-ho Choi, for his loving prayers and support during Myong’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in support of Good Shepherd Hospice of Olathe and/or the Korean Methodist Church of Leavenworth.