Duane V. Nystedt

Duane V. Nystedt, 81, of Mesa, AZ, passed away on December 16, 2023. Duane is survived by his wife Dianne, daughter Rhonda Mate, grandson Tony Mate, granddaughter Ashleigh (Anthony) Thompson and three great grandchildren Sadie, A.J. and Zoe Thompson.

Duane was born Sept. 5, 1942, in Milaca, MN. He was the last of eight children born to Jennie and Edward Nystedt, who preceded him in death, he has one remaining sister Elaine (Daine) Horton. He attended Oregon schools and graduated from South Salem High School. He also attended Willamette University.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Duane was stationed at White Sands Missile Base in New Mexico. After the service, he moved to the Pacific Northwest where he was engaged in a multitude of businesses ranging from a bar, taxi service, to everything dealing with cars from sales, maintenance, and financing.

In the mid 80's he moved to Alaska with the car business. He became the chief financial advisor for Ravenwood Family Clinic, assisting his wife's practice, during his retirement years. During retirement he traveled between Alaska and Arizona during the winter months, until they made Sequim, WA, their summer home two years ago, travelling to Arizona in the winter.

Duane was an active Rotarian serving as a Director for South Anchorage Rotary and Charter President of Gateway Rotary. He was a long time Board Member for Beans Café.

Duane was a lifelong Seattle Seahawks, Mariners. and Oregon Ducks fan. He was an avid golfer, enjoyed card games, especially Bridge. He loved the great outdoors, snowmobiling, hiking, fishing, boating, camping and recreation vehicle travel in his later years. He was able to travel annually to Hawaii, and went abroad visiting Australia, New Zealand, and Italy among others.

Duane enjoyed his family, friends, and dogs. He enjoyed entertaining his friends and holding the annual St. Paddy's Day party on Merlin Street along with the Halloween party. He was a frequent visitor to the Pet Walk handing out salmon treats to the dogs. Charitable donations may be given in his name to organizations specializing in animal care, including humane societies and the Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Per his request, his remains will be returned to Alaska and his favorite fishing grounds.