Where to start?  I know he "saved" my best friend Sara.  He was no doubt her knight in shining armor!  I remember when she told me she loved him.... I said, YOU DO NOT! And she said.... oh but I do, I've loved him for a lifetime.  Then looking back at the times she spoke of Duane.... more often than I realized, and how she had a smile and deep sense of peace about her when she told me about him and how they knew each other and how things progressed into the "I want you! kind of love....  then I knew it was true.... oh how happy she was and how happy they were together!  The moon and sun and all the stars aligned.  

To know Duane, was to love him!  His company was always fun, and entertaining, he was a good storyteller and equally a good listener.... he was like the easy chair in your family room beside the fireplace, someone you just wanted to be with.  He was a soft place to fall when life got tough.  He was the first person to call when you wanted to celebrate!  He was the go-to for so many.

We will always love you Duane, you will be missed for a lifetime.  You have left us all too soon, leaving an irreplaceable void but your memories we will hold dear.   Till we meet again dear friend .....  

Today we honor and celebrate the life of Duane—a man whose presence lit up every room he entered, whose humor could brighten even the darkest of days, and whose heart was a wellspring of dignity, respect, and unconditional love.

I first met Duane through his beautiful wife, Sara. One of my bestest buds. Sara and I taught together, and over the years, she and Duane became like family to me. My children adore his quick wit and humor, and I must say, so do I.

Duane had a love for his family, camping, fishing, cars and most importantly always taking my bestie away every summer to go on their escapades. Sara looked forward to their summers every year. I would get phone calls during the summer of how much fun they were having.

One of my favorite memories of Duane was when we were planning Sara’s 60th birthday party. In true Duane fashion, he told me, “Just do whatever you want.” He trusted me completely, knowing how much I adore Sara, and I put every bit of my heart into planning that celebration. When the day came, Duane showed up at my house with a cooler packed with his favorite drinks, ready to party. He just wanted Sara to have the time of her life. That’s who Duane was: a man who put the happiness of others first, especially Sara.

Duane had a remarkable ability to lift people up during their hardest moments. He was there for me during some of my toughest times, and it was his sharp wit and humor that helped me find the strength to keep going. He taught me, in his own unique way, that laughter truly is a form of healing.

What I will remember most about Duane is the way he made people feel. He had a gift for making everyone around him feel special, loved, and seen. His laughter was infectious, his charm undeniable, and his devotion to Sara unwavering. He truly was a ladies’ man—but his heart always, always belonged to her.

Duane, you will forever be missed. Your laughter, your light, and your love will remain etched in our hearts. You’ve left an indelible mark on this world, and I promise I will always take care of Sara.

Until we meet again…..I love you Mr. Duane. So grateful I had you in our lives for the time we did. 

Sara and family, there are no words to describe my sadness for you,  for this untimely loss.  May our Loving God help you find peace and strength for the days ahead. 

My love to you,  hugs. ❤️ Carolyn Pond