Duane Krause

Duane Krause ObituaryDuane Krause passed away at the age of 58 on Monday, July 14, 2025 in Pierre, SD.
Funeral service will be at 1:00pm Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service from 11:00am - 1:00pm on Saturday at the church.
Duane David Krause, age 58, of Fort Pierre, South Dakota, passed away unexpectedly at his home on July 14, 2025, from a sudden heart attack. He died in his favorite place - his recliner - with his drink and chips by his side.
Duane was born on July 5, 1967, in Watertown, South Dakota, to David and Pamela (Lupinek) Krause. He was raised on the family farm near Bemis, where his strong work ethic and love of hands-on work were shaped early in life.
After a short time on a ranch in Wyoming, the West stole his heart. He settled into the life he loved, working for J/4 Land and Cattle of Estelline, South Dakota, on Bear Paw Ranch near Fort Pierre.
He spent his entire career working as a farmhand and mechanic. A true jack of all trades, Duane had an incredible talent for fixing just about anything. Whether it was a tractor, truck, or household gadget, if it was broken, he could make it run again-usually better than before. He was the one everyone called when something needed tinkering, and he was always willing to help.
Duane was a gruff guy with a tender heart, always willing to lend a hand. He loved a good drink and spending time with friends and family, sharing stories and laughter. He always told it like it was-no sugar-coating, just honest and real. He was the most sociable hermit you'd ever meet: kept to himself, but somehow knew everyone and always had time for a chat.
He is survived by his son, Tony and daughter-in-law Brenna, along with his four beloved grandchildren: Levi, Anna, Lane, and Theodore. He is also survived by his siblings: Mark (Tammy) Krause of Watertown, SD; Darlene Pierce of Hot Springs, SD; Angie (Lon) Meseberg of Watertown, SD; and Lori Boschee of Eureka, SD.
He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Pamela Krause, and his baby sister, Pamela.
Visitation will be held at Grace Lutheran Church on July 19, beginning at 11 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 1 p.m.
In lieu of formal attire, please wear comfortable clothes as we celebrate Duane's life. He didn't want anyone to make a fuss over him - he just wanted everyone to have a party when he was gone. So, a reception will be held afterward at High Mountain Supper Club and Lounge in Altamont, South Dakota.
Duane will be remembered for his quiet strength, his gift for fixing just about anything, and the deep love he had for his family-especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and joy.
Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel serving the family www.wightandcomes.com.
Duane Krause passed away at the age of 58 on Monday, July 14, 2025 in Pierre, SD.
Funeral service will be at 1:00pm Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service from 11:00am - 1:00pm on Saturday at the church.
Duane David Krause, age 58, of F