Announcement of Death
Duane Mortensen, aged 96, passed away on October 9, 2024, in Lawrence, KS.
Biography
Duane Mortensen was born on December 3, 1927, and raised on a farm near Royal, Iowa, as the third son of John and Ella Mortensen. He graduated as valedictorian from Royal High School in 1945 and served with the U.S. Army of Occupation in Seoul, Korea, from 1946 to 1948. Afterward, through the G.I. Bill earned a B.S. in Commerce from the University of Iowa in 1952. Duane began his career at John Deere, working as an accountant at the Waterloo and Dubuque Works, eventually retiring as Plant Controller in 1982. He also served as Business Manager of Wartburg Theological Seminary from 1982 to 1987.
Duane was actively involved in community and church leadership roles, serving with organizations such as the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, United Way, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. He and his wife, Audrey, received the Distinguished Civic Service Award in 1975 for their contributions.
Loved Ones
Duane is survived by his wife of 69 years, Audrey, and their children Mary Mortensen of Lawrence, KS, Ruth Mortensen of Chicago, IL, and Neal Mortensen (Trena) of Indianapolis, IN. He leaves behind two grandchildren, Tristan Mortensen (Erika Schlichter) of Riner, VA, and Tianna Maschger (Tyler) of St. Petersburg, FL, as well as great-granddaughters Elan and Layla. He is also survived by his brother Ronald (Barbara) Mortensen of Valley, NE, and sister Peggy Miller of Ft. Worth, TX, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Darrel, Virgil, and Vernon.
Memorial Services
A funeral service for Duane will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2211 Inverness, on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 3:00 pm. Inurnment will take place in the spring of 2025 at Stordahl Lutheran Cemetery, Dell Rapids, SD.
Closing Thoughts
Duane will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and insatiable curiosity. He was a true gentleman, passionate reader, and dedicated sports fan. His family will forever cherish the love, wisdom, and joy he brought to their lives.
Hobbies
Duane and his family were avid travelers, visiting 47 states and enjoying trips to state capitals and Pittsburgh Pirates baseball games.
