Duane Fredrick Plenge, 91, was born June 8, 1926 in Fairmont, Martin County, Minnesota. He passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at Cottagewood in Rochester where he was a resident.

Duane served two years in the Armed Forces. He met Christine Mitchell and was married for 59 years. He farmed in the Elgin area for many years. Then Duane started his second career in construction in the mid 70's. Duane and family built their family cabin in Grand Marais, MN in the early 70's. In 1987 Duane and Christine permanently relocated to the Grand Marais home where they owned and operated a Feed and Seed business as well as other endeavors. Duane was involved with the John Bear Grease dog sled races for many years. He also served on many boards in the Cook County area, as well as a State Fire Warden.

Upon his retirement Duane and Chris enjoyed fishing, traveling, hunting, and many visitors to their home from friends and family, whether it would be for a cup of coffee or a week's stay in one of the lumber jack shacks.

Duane and Chis raised 5 children, Larry (Dawn) Plenge, Linda (Lee) Henry, Lonny Plenge, Lori Adams, Lee (Patricia) Plenge, 10 grandchildren and many great and great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two brothers, and one grandson.

A Memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 16, at Schleicher Funeral Homes, Plainview Chapel in Plainview with Rev. Cory Moss officiating. Burial will be in the Elgin Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Trinity Lutheran Ladies Guild of Elgin.

A special thank you to the staff at Cottagewood Senior Community and Heartland Hospice Service.