Duane Leroy Carpenter

Duane Leroy Carpenter went home to be with the Lord on August 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Landers, California.

Born on January 14, 1935, in Long Beach, California, to parents Lola and Marion Carpenter, Duane grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for family. In 1957, he married the love of his life, Barbara Carpenter, and together they built a beautiful life, welcoming their son Kenneth, in 1959 and adopting their daughter Angela, in 1972.

Duane worked as a heavy equipment operator for 30 years, a career he loved and took great pride in. His work was instrumental in shaping the Coachella Valley; he helped build many of the area's golf courses, leaving a lasting mark on the community.

Outside of work, Duane's true joy came from the time he spent with family and friends. He was happiest outdoors, camping, off-roading, and taking countless trips to Glamis and Dumont dunes. He had a passion for sand drag racing, building sand cars and bajas, and enjoying weekends at Lake Havasu. He loved fishing trips to Convict Lake, hunting adventures, and caring for his chickens at home. Duane was known for his big heart, strong hands, and ability to bring people together for fun and everlasting memories.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara, son Kenneth, parents, grandparents, sister, and stepfather. Duane is survived by his daughter Angela (Steve), daughter-in-law Kimberly, grandchildren Jason, David, Justin, Theresa (Ryan), Andrew, Jocelyn (Nick), Christian, Marlena, and Auggie (Michelle), as well as nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his wife, Josephine Baker, with whom he shared later years of love and companionship.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 7047 Rubidoux, Yucca Valley, California. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor Duane's memory and celebrate a life lived to the fullest.