Duane C. McAllister Jr.

Duane C. McAllister Jr., age 65, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15, 2025.

Duane was born on March 15, 1960, in Lincoln Park, Michigan, to Duane Sr. and Anita (Ackermann) McAllister. As the son of a dedicated military father, Duane experienced a childhood full of movement and adventure, living in California, Germany, Oklahoma, Michigan, and eventually settling in Minnesota. He graduated from Bertha-Hewitt High School in Bertha, Minnesota, with the Class of 1978.

Shortly after high school, Duane began his career at Honeywell — a place that would not only shape his professional life but also lead him to the love of his life. In 1980, he met Julie Petersen, a coworker who quickly became his closest companion. The two eloped and were married on May 25, 1982. Together, they built a loving home and raised their children in Blaine before moving to Forest Lake, where they continued to make cherished memories.

Duane remained with Honeywell throughout his career, ultimately working as a Senior Principal Software Analyst for what is now Northrop Grumman. He was known by colleagues and friends alike for his incredible attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and quiet professionalism. He could fix just about anything — and did, often.

Beyond work, Duane found great joy in nature and the outdoors. He and Julie purchased land in Pine City, which became “The Land” a looked forward to weekend retreat. There, he spent his time gardening, chopping wood, and observing the wildlife that wandered through — from birds and deer to every variety of squirrel. Once an avid hunter, Duane’s later years were marked by a deep appreciation for the animals he once pursued.

He loved camping, hiking, hosting the annual family Jamboree, and cheering on his favorite drivers in NASCAR. A few weeks before his passing, Duane fulfilled a dream by attending the Brickyard 400 — a memory now treasured by those who went with him. In addition to NASCAR and possibly even more so, he was a fan of Indy Car racing. He attended the Indy 500 many times dating back to 1985. This spring he went to his first Indy qualifier.

Duane was a deeply devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. He loved his family fiercely, including his loyal hunting dog and best friend, Furstin, who passed away just last summer. He had just begun looking for a new four-legged companion.

Duane is preceded in death by his nephew, Ross Elgin, and sister-in-law, Mary Schulz.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Julie; his children, Daniel and Jennifer; granddaughter, Amelia Banta-McAllister; parents, Duane Sr. and Anita; siblings, Linda Kaluza, and Sandra (Brian) McAllister Elgin; nephew, Taylor Elgin; great-niece, Vada Elgin; and siblings-in-law, Susan White, Robert Petersen, Kathleen Petersen, Charles Petersen, David (Jennifer) Petersen; along with many other cherished family members and friends.

A time of sharing stories and memories will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The family will greet friends beginning at 11:00 a.m., and a reception will follow the service at the funeral home.

Duane’s quiet strength, his meticulous care, and his deep love for those around him will be remembered always.