Duane U. Strauss, age 86, of Tomahawk, WI, passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Milestone Senior Living in Tomahawk. Duane was born in Minneapolis, MN, on September 12, 1940, to the late Anton and Margaret (Tritz) Strauss.
Duane proudly served his country in the United States Army for six years, stationed three years in Augsburg, Germany, as a demolition expert. Following his military service, he attended forestry school in Grand Rapids, MN, which led to a lifelong career working in the woods.
On July 3, 1963, Duane married the love of his life, Irene Port. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage; Irene survives.
Duane began his career with Owens-Illinois in Tomahawk in 1964, working as a Woods Supervisor in the Woodlands Department until his retirement in 1998. His career reflected his deep respect for the land and the outdoors. During his years with O-I, Duane achieved the incredible milestone of one million accident-free miles.
A firm believer in Christ, Duane's faith was an important part of his life. He was also a member of the American Legion and the NRA. In 1976, Duane participated in the Centennial Log Drive from Park Falls to Ladysmith down the Flambeau River, an experience that perfectly suited a man with such a love and appreciation for Wisconsin's woods and waterways.
Duane was a man who loved to see the country and experience all it had to offer. He especially enjoyed camping with Irene and family traveling through 49 states, Canada, and Mexico. Along the way, they experienced the beautiful gifts nature offered while visiting countless national parks, historical markers, and taking time to see family and friends. His adventurous spirit also took him on fishing trips to Canada and hunting at "The Shack" near Ladysmith.
When Duane wasn't traveling, he could often be found tinkering with his tractors, working in his private sawmill, woodworking, tending to his garden and yard, or simply sitting beneath a tree, cap pulled down, quietly thinking. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, including sunflower seeds, vanilla ice cream cones, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and faithfully attending the Saturday night Boomba drawings.
Family gatherings held a special place in Duane's heart. At holiday get-togethers, he was committed to making breakfast over the fire. For all of his travels, accomplishments, hobbies, and adventures, nothing meant more to Duane than the people he loved.
Duane will be remembered for his witty personality, adventurous spirit, strong work ethic, respect for the land, and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Most importantly, Duane's greatest gift was the love he had for his family. He loved and cherished them deeply, and the many traditions, adventures, stories, and memories he leaves behind will continue to be treasured by those who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife, Irene Strauss; his son, Eric (Michelle) Strauss; his daughters, Georgi Sartain and Wendy (Thomas) Michalski; his brothers, Richard Strauss and Gary Strauss; his sister, Margaret (Butch) Robinson; and his sister-in-law, Linda Strauss. Duane is further survived by his grandchildren, Benjamin Michalski, Whitney (Jacob) Ford, Ripley Sartain, Katie Michalski (Devin Foster), Mercedes (Damyn) Gessler, Cassidy Sartain, and Trinity Strauss; and his great-grandchildren, Sterling Sartain, Adaline Sartain, Carson Sartain, Lilly Ford, and Deekin Foster. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Margaret; his brother, Tony Strauss; his son-in-law, Kevin Sartain; and his sister-in-law, Anne Strauss.
Duane's family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to the staff and residents of Milestone Senior Living in Tomahawk and Aspirus Hospice for the amazing care, kindness, and friendships they provided to Duane.
Funeral services for Duane Strauss will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM, at Grace Lutheran Church in Tomahawk. Pastor Julie Sinkula will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation from 12:00 PM until the time of services at 1:00 PM. A Military Tribute will take place at 2:30 PM at Prairie Rapids Cemetery in the Town of Nokomis. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Duane’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.
