Duane Robert Rosenow, age 91, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026. He was born on November 18, 1934, in Tomah, Wisconsin, to Garlinda (Wappler) and Alvin Rosenow, and was raised in the Tomah community he always held close to his heart. He was baptized at his parents’ home on January 28, 1935, and graduated from Tomah High School.

Growing up, Duane worked on family farms, developing the strong work ethic and practical skills that shaped the rest of his life. He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard of Wisconsin from 1953 to 1956 as a Private First Class, working as a cook and earning recognition as a sharpshooter. He later continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves, achieving the rank of Sergeant (E‑5) before his honorable discharge in 1962.

On May 14, 1955, Duane married Joan Zillmer, and together they built a family and many years of shared memories. Duane worked as a welder before beginning a long career as a truck driver, a profession that suited his independence and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone he met.

Duane had a wide range of interests that reflected his hands-on nature and love of tradition. He enjoyed woodworking and gardening, spent many seasons deer hunting, and was a strong supporter of gun rights. He was an avid collector of firearms, knives, coins, and German beer steins. Over the years, he found camaraderie in bowling leagues and card clubs. His humor—sharp, dry, and ever-present—kept caregivers and family laughing until the very end. Duane had a gift for connecting with people and a legendary ability to fall asleep anywhere.

Duane is survived by his children:

Steven (Milagros) Rosenow of Sacramento, Penny Rosenow of Milwaukee, and Lynn Susan Fischer of Milwaukee.

He is further survived by his grandchildren:

Karen Rosenow, Robert (Malinda) Rosenow, Nicholas (Jamy McClain) Rosenow, Joshua Geier, Eden (Geier) (Brett) Wallner;

and his great‑grandchildren:

Mellisa Woods, Caitlin Drevs, Elizabeth Rosenow, Hadley Wallner, Everly Wallner, Carter Daniels, Isabella Geier, Sophia Rosenow;

as well as many nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Eldor Rosenow, LeRoy Rosenow, Alton Rosenow, Delores Schumann, and LaVon Duer; his former wife Joan (Zillmer) Rosenow; his son Randall Rosenow; and his beloved friend Betty.

Duane lived a full life marked by resilience, humor, generosity, faith, and a deep appreciation for simple joys. His stories, his laughter, and his unmistakable presence will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Funeral and service arrangements are pending but will take place in Tomah in February. 

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