Duane C. Spooner
April 19, 1952 ~ October 19, 2020
On October 19, 2020, Duane Curtis Spooner left his terrestrial binds for the great ethereal hunting plains.
Duane was born April, 19, 1952 in Crosby, ND as the third of six children. His parents Alan and Ethel (Nygaard) Spooner were farmers in Noonan, ND and worked hard to provide for and instill the hard work ethic, integrities, and values that Duane used to carry himself through life. As an adolescent, Duane hunted, played football, and began his love of fast cars, spending hours with his brothers and friends fixing his 56 Chevy only so that he could break it again.
After high school, Duane attended NDSU for a spell before returning home to work on the farm and the body shop, until he became the manager of the elevator in Northgate, ND. While there, he met and fell for the love of his life and wife of 41 years, Kristie Ganskop. In the middle of an April blizzard in 1979, the two wed, which was a fitting start to the whirlwind of their life together. They soon set out to establish roots of their own by moving and renting farmland in McKenzie, ND. While there, in 1980, Duane’s first child Josh was born in October, right in the middle of a harvest and opening pheasant weekend. In August 1982, their small family grew with the birth of Duane’s daughter, Andrea and they purchased a farm in Tappen, ND. In 1984, they welcomed their 2nd son, Eric but by 1986, they could not escape the farm crisis and sold the farm.
Duane entered a new chapter of his life by enrolling in the Colorado School of Trades and began his path as a master gunsmith and custom rifle builder. The family moved to Lakewood, CO while Duane completed his studies. In 1987, the family returned to Tappen, ND and he founded Duane’s Gun Repair. Over the next several years, Duane did double duty as gunsmith and Mr. Mom while Kristie went back to school to earn her degree in Addiction Counseling and Social Work. Duane was very active in his children’s lives, hosting epic NES Tecmo Superbowl football tournaments, coaching their baseball teams, teaching them to shoot and hunt, and always finding time to attend their activities and sporting events no matter the distance or inconvenience.
Being an avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed many adventurous family vacations, and traded several custom rifles for once-in-a-lifetime hunting and fishing trips for his family.
In 2003, he began a part time role as the business manager of Tappen Public Schools and shortly after became the full-time business manager. With the consolidation of the county schools, he moved into a new role as Business Manager for the South Central Regional Council.
With joy, he witnessed the marriage of his daughter Andrea in 2007 to Tjaden Sinclair and the marriage of his son Eric in 2016 to Maria Krogen. He welcomed his first grandchild, Jackson in 2009, followed by Brielle (2011), Thornton (2013), Lola (2015) and Everett (2017). His grandchildren were truly the love of his life and he loved nothing better than to spend time with them.
In 2016, at the bequest of his son Joshua, Duane partnered with Josh to move Duane’s Gun Repair to Fargo, ND where he worked until his sudden passing.
Duane loved to engage in conversation about all topics of life, and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Family was always first for him and he always said his best accomplishment in life was his children and how involved he was in their childhood. His kind, generous nature touched many lives and his passing has left a void that cannot be filled.
He is survived by his wife, Kristie; children, Joshua (special friend Ayanna), Moorhead, MN, Andrea (Tjaden) Sinclair with children Jackson, Brielle, Thornton, and Everett, Fargo, ND, Eric (Maria), West Fargo, ND; mother, Ethel, Crosby, ND; sister, Donna Hegle, Bismarck, ND; brothers, Mark (Lori) Spooner, Noonan, ND, Albert (Mae) Spooner, Minneapolis, MN, Todd Spooner, Crosby, ND and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his dad, Alan, grandchild, Lola, brother, Keith, brother-in-law, Ken and father-in-law, Art.
Memorial Service: 2:00 P.M. Saturday, October 24, 2020 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tappen, ND with visitation starting at 1:00 P.M.
The service will be live streamed on the St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tappan, ND website. https://www.stjohnstappen.org/
Duane's Video Tribute can be viewed below:
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Kristie- You and your family are at the heart of our prayers. Although we must gather virtually, please know that we mourn with you for your loss, and rejoice for Duane as he joins the company of heaven. I wonder how it was when he met up with Spook? Ah, she was a great old dog. Love to you all.
I am saddened to hear about the loss of your husband. May you find some peace in the memories you shared. You’re in my thoughts.
Sending love and light.
Your Georgia cousin-
Dianne (Beasley), Steve and Pierce Keen
Sorry for your families loss. I only chatted with Duane a few times and he was always so kind. From all the comments I have seen, he truly was an amazing man who touched many. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Kristie and family, we are so saddened to hear of Duane’s passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time!
Al and Shirley Klein
Kristy, so sorry to here of Diane’s, passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family, jeff hanson
Kristie, Josh, Andrea, and Eric~ I can hear his chuckle to this day. From speech tourneys to basketball games, how I loved his reflections. My family lifts you all in prayer during this time. Love to each of you.
Kristie and family;
We were sorry to hear of Duane’s passing. He was a great guy. Prayers for the family at this sad time…
Kristie and family, I am so sorry for your loss, may god show his grace on you during this time.
Our sympathy to your whole family. We did not know Duane well, but can see how he touched many lives. Let your loving memories surround you as the hard, difficult days ahead of you threaten to take their toll. Kristie, and each of you, we love you and remember you in our prayers. We know you are all strong and many care for you.
Kristie-my sincere sympathy; so many fond memories of work together. Think of you often, hugs to you.
Grace Backman
Kristie & family,
Our sincere sympathy to all the family. It’s been years since we’ve seen Duane except on TV news interviews.
Our prayers for you as you honor his memory & look for ways to find a new normal without Duane.
May you feel God’s comfort & peace.
Sorry for your loss. Bruce has lots of memories of ball games and motorcycle rides
Kristie, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love you
Jed and Carrie
So sorry for your loss.
So sorry for your loss! You are in our thoughts and prayers!
So sorry for the loss of your loved one. May the Lord guide you through this most difficult time in your life. He was a pretty special man take care and God Bless 🙏 🙏🙏.
Kristie and family-
It hurts our hearts to hear of your husband and father’s passing. No one is ever prepared for such an event. Please know we are thankful for everything you have given and taught us. We extend the sympathy and love to you. We pray for your faith to strengthen you and lead you thru this difficult time. God is holding you in His hands. Much love-Tom and Avis
Duane, I lost a friend in you, even if it was only visiting in the shop. I say prayers to your family and yourself, missing you already.
Kirstie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kristie and Family,
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband and Dad. Know you’re in my thoughts and prayers at this time of your sorrow.
Theresa Rassel
Sorry to hear of Duanes passing prayers to his family. Even tho I was younger he was always good to all!
Words are hard to say, this was a great men. I enjoyed working with him and getting to know his family. Now he can show the lord how to hunt. GodBless You Duane
We are so very sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories for they are yours forever. Prayers to all
Our deepest sympathies as you say final goodbyes to a wonderful man. Duane spoke so highly of his family and was clearly so supportive of youth pursuing their dreams. We certainly appreciate his attention to our daughter, Lia, who often had urgent gun repairs/need for a replacement firearm which she entrusted Duane. We are grateful to have shared stories with Duane. We pray you are comforted by many, happy memories
Kristie,
Upon learning of the news of Duane’s passing there were no words to convey the feeling of sadness at your loss and your family’s loss. I imagine you are a overwhelmed; remember “Footprints in the Sand”. Will be in touch in the next few months.
My deepest sympathies and prayers to all
Kristie and Family,
We are so saddened by the news of Duane’s sudden passing. He was an incredibly talented craftsman, loving husband, father and grandfather as well as being a great friend to those of us lucky enough to have met and loved him. Words just aren’t enough at a time like this, just know that our love and prayers are with you through this difficult time.
With all our love and prayers,
Jeff and Betty
Kristie, Josh, Andrea, Eric and families. So very sorry to hear about the passing of Duane. I will always remember the first time you and Duane drove up to our farm. I had no idea who you were and it scared me a little. Needless to say, you turned out to be the best neighbors we could have ever asked for. Know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kristie, my deepest condolences to you and your family. I was very sad to hear of the news. Peace to you all.
Kristie, our deepest sympathy to you and your family! We were saddened to hear of Duane passing! Memories of Duane and Spook would come up in conversation every now and again! Keeping you all in thought and prayer!
Kristie and family, so sorry for your loss. Did not get to spend a lot of time with Duane, but sure enjoyed the time time we did spend together. He was a great man. Love and hugs to you all.
Kristie,
I am so saddened to hear about the passing of your husband. You have been such an amazing support to me at work with your positive attitude and encouraging words as I have been navigating pregnancy after loss. I know your husband is up there holding tight to his sweet little granddaughter. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Kristi and family, So sorry for your loss. We had the pleasure of knowing him when you lived on the place in McKenzie and through our homemakers outings and football and I know we had a gun or two fixed in your Tappen shop. He was a wonderful caring soul and may he rest in everlasting peace. Ron and Wendy Wollmuth
Great memories of Duane in our younger years growing up a few miles apart on County Rd 6. I kind of lost track of him for many years, but reconnected a little through Facebook. In reading through his obituary, what a wonderful full life he had. God’s peace to his family, may your memories bring comfort and each prayer offered up in your names bring you healing. 🙏🙏🙏❤️🌈
Dear Kristie and family,
I am so saddened by Duane’s passing! I loved reading his obituary and the legacy his life has had on family and friends! He will be so missed by all who knew him!
My love to you all. Holding you in prayer and praying for God to surround you with his love and for His Spirit to give you comfort and peace now and in the days to come!
Duane was a caring, generous and giving man. When I had no place to go with my cattle, he offered his facilities. We fixed what needed to be fixed, and Duane would lend a hand when needed. Duane and Kristie allowed us to have our cattle there for many years. We had many good talks, he was always willing to lend an ear. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to Kristie and the family.
I’m so sorry for your loss Kristie. I had no idea about this until it showed up in a random search today. God surely must have wanted your family to know and share your sorrow. Know that we think about you and pray for you and your family at this time.
Kristi, I was so shocked to see the news of Duane’s passing. The Bismarck crew spent many hours hunting for deer in the fall. It was a time to share stories and many laughs. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time of loss. Blane
Kristie I am so sorry for your loss. I will pray for you and your family.
Dear Kristie and Family
I was so saddened to learn of the passing of your husband. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. If I/we at The Village can help in any way, please let me know. Again, my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Jeff Pederson
Duane’s family was neighbors of ours out in the hills. He was always kind by giving us rides home or by taking us hunting. He was always one of the good guys. Blessings to all his family.
I knew Duane in high school loved that old Chevy. Such a neat car! After I was marries and living in Flaxton I got to visit with Duane several more times when he was the elevator manager in Northgate. Then lost track for several years before reconnecting on Facebook. I always thought he was one of the nicest and kindest men I’d ever met! My condolences to you and your family! RIP Duane
Kristie, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I am thinking of and praying for you and your family during this difficult time.
Kristie, Andrea, Tjaden, Eric and family… I am sorry for the loss of your beloved Duane. I pray you will find comfort in the. wonderful memories and love you all shared. Your old realtor buddy,
Jill
Kristie & family, We can’t tell you how heartbreaking the news of Duane’s passing hit us. Your family is constantly in our thoughts & prayers. We are so glad we were able to get together for lunch a few weeks ago. And that Duane took the time to meet us early at his shop & show us around. The conversation with Duane and the video of the pictures of his life are such a testimonial of his life & what really mattered to Duane. Please know your family will continue to be in our prayers. We ask for God’s love & guidance to be with you & help you through all the tough times & the days ahead. Love Mark & Cindy Filipek
Sending our Deepest Sympathy to the Spooner Family. Praying for God’s Blessings to you during this time of loss.
So sorry to hear about your loss! Duane was a very kind and wonderful man! He always had a kind word for anyone he met!! Duane was great working with Rick after the tractor accident in coaching him in baseball! Hugs and prayers!
Duane,
You were a warm and friendly conversationalist, it was a pleasure to meet you through your shop.
Josh,
Our family sends condolences to yours. May you find peace and comfort.
Kindest Regards,
Jeff and Pamela Morrau
Our heartfelt sympathies to you, Kristie, and all of your family in the loss of Duane. May the Lord carry you through this difficult time that you remember the beauty in your years together. He was a wonderful friend and neighbor to all whose lives he touched.
Kristie and family- wanted to pass on my sympathies on the passing of Duane. I will always remember Duane for his genuine kindness, smile, and hearty laugh. I always enjoyed seeing him when I was home in church. His devotion to his family was admirable and you will always have those memories to cherish. May God be present in your grieving and give comfort to you. Hold firm to your faith and know Duane will be waiting for you with the same smile you remember. Hugs and prayers
Sorry for your loss. Prayers for you guys. We have great memories as his classmate.
So sorry for your loss. We rode bus together way back when to school. Go glad we all got together at our 45th reunion 5 years ago. Missed you, Duane, at our 50th. RIP. Memories live on forever.
Kristie, Josh, Andrea, Eric and family,
I am so truly sorry. This just doesn’t seem possible. Duane was such a special loving man and we will treasure our memories for ever. He was a gentle soul with a mighty spirit. Can’t thank him enough for the connection he had with Kayla, Alex and Jordan. Alex has awesome God Parents!
Remember all the good times and please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you all.
Debbie
Love you man. I will always will think about all the great times from the last day I hung out with you from the campfire pits in the late 80s to the last Wednesday I saw you so so glad I was there.😢
Words fail to express my sorrow for your loss. Duane welcomed me with open arms. I will miss the laughs and talks while visiting the shop.He will surely be missed. Kristi and Family you will be in my prayers.
Kristie and family, We are deeply sorry to hear of Duane’s passing. We are thinking of you with heavy hearts. All our sympathy, Bob and Laureen Klein
Dear Kristie and Family,
We are very sorry for your loss, Duane always held a friendly place in my heart.
Marlya and I watched the funeral on Youtube. We were comforted by your pastor’s Biblical message as we hope you were also.
I can imagine Duane now seeing with perfect eye sight now, thinking he does not need any glasses, scopes—but what matters is that he can see Jesus—- now perfectly.
Kristie, Josh, Andrea & Eric…. Duane’s service was so moving. The readings and music were perfect. I so loved your Pastor’s explanation of St Paul to the Roman’s. God Bless you all.
Sincerely and with lots of hugs
Bob & Judy German
Kristie and Family,
Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Our sincere sympathy and love,
Claudia and Mick McIntyre
So very sorry your family is in our thoughts and prayers
You learn a lot about a person after being friends with them for 33yrs! I am lost and don’t know where to look to find another more honest, entertaining, knowledgeable family man? I am lost my friend! Love You like you were my brother and thanks for the many fun times.
We certainly would have been to Duane’s funeral had it not been for this awful pandemic. I am so thankful for modern technology that made it possible to view the video of Duane’s life and to be able to feel a part of the beautiful worship service. Andrea your piano tribute to your dad was my favorite! It was beautiful and such a touching song. I loved all of the readings and music. So very special.
We are thinking of you all, Duane’s immediate family and especially the grandchildren that will miss him, but also to Duane’s brothers and sister and their families. And to my special Aunt Ethel who has left a great influence on my life. Our Sincere Sympathy to each of you reading this. Dianne
My condolences to your family for your loss. I have fond memories of Duane as an adolescent in rural Noonan getting motorcycle rides from him and Zion Church activities. He was a fun-loving, kind guy.
Duanes’ Family,
Kindly accept my profound gesture of condolence as we say goodbye to Duane.
I was allowed to share in Duane’s life as coordinator of the hunter safety program for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department over 20 years. Duane provided volunteer hunter safety instruction and repaired many firearms for department use in classes
God Bless all and know that Duane’s memory will last forever in my heart,
I only met Duane one time, but it was a pretty significant meeting. I was looking to become a gunsmith and I called around to several shops in the area just to ask a few questions. Duane and Josh told me I should just come on in to have a look around and ask anything I wanted. When I showed up it was a little busy, but as soon as Duane heard who I was and why I was there, he pulled up another chair to his bench and we sat and talked for hours. He answered all my questions, gave me one or two trade secrets, we ended up talking about guns and hunting and he told me his life story. He even helped me decide which school I should attend. I will always remember and be grateful for that meeting. That was a few weeks before his passing. I am very grateful I was able to meet Duane and my prayers are with all of you who knew him far better and more intimately than I did.
Celebrating a life full of values to last a lifetime. We were saddened to discover that Duane had passed away suddenly over 1 year ago–so sorry for the delay in this posting, but we just found out about his passing…..Our love to his entire family
…Most sincerely, Christopher and Jolene Nyland and family (Westby, Mt).
I LOVED DUANE…HE WAS A BEAUTIFUL MALE …….(I have to say what I feel inside myself)……….LOVE YOU DUANE—AL WARR.