Duane Simon

Duane Allan Simon  was born on April 19, 1958 in Maddock, ND  and  died on August 6, 2014 at Manor Care in Fargo ND.  He was 56 years of age.  He was the son of Veronica and Kenneth Simon . 

Duane grew up on the family farm west of Minnewaukan.  Attended Minnewaukan High and graduated in 1976.    During his high school days Duane enjoyed playing basketball. He was baptized and confirmed at St. James Catholic Church, Minnewaukan ND.

After graduation, Duane worked for the Donnie Thompson family on their farm.  In 1986 moved to Fargo and started working for Red River Manufacturing. For the last 18 years has been working for McNeilius Steele as fork lift operator.

Duane was married to Lori Essler on March 1990 from this union were born two sons Jesse Allan, and Jordan Xaviar.

In November of 1989 Duane was diagnosed with Stage 4 osteo-sarcoma.  He fought strongly and bravely through many surgeries and treatments.  Told by his doctors at the Mayo Clinic he was a medical miracle to survive this disease for the last 24 years.  To the very end he still was determined to fight this never ending battle.

Duane enjoyed being outdoors, riding 4 wheelers with his children.  A typical Sunday morning in the summer when the boys were little was to attend the drag races in Sabin .  Sunday backyard BBQs. Always known as the “do It yourself man”, hard worker.  He enjoyed taking care of all his vehicles repairing them himself, keeping the yard in working order while listening to Loud Classic Rock. 

Duane leaves behind his children, Jesse  Fargo,  Jordan, Fargo, Brant Hanson, Bismarck.  Sisters Connie Michels, Edmore ND,  Margaret (John) Swenson, Fargo  ND,  Karen (Frank) LeBron, Colorado Springs CO. Brother Ken (Cindy) Simon, Fargo ND.  Nephews &Nieces:  Ryan Michels, MN, Kristi Michels, Fargo ND, Kyle Lebron CO, Kimberly Smith CO, Joshua Simon Fargo..  4 great newphews, 3 great nieces.

He was  preceded in death by his parents, grand parents, sister Mary, Brother –in-law Steven Michels.  Many aunts and uncles.