Duane Roland Simonson

Pastor Duane Roland Simonson, a man of unwavering faith and boundless love, was called home to his Lord and Savior on June 16, 2025, having lived a life of devout service and compassion. Born on January 2, 1942, in the humble town of Worms, Nebraska, to Onon and Frieda Simonson. Duane's journey was one marked by dedication to his calling, his family, and the countless lives he touched. He passed away peacefully of natural causes in Buffalo, Wyoming on June, 16th 2025.

Duane's early years in Worms laid the foundation for a life steeped in Christian values. He attended Zion Lutheran School through eighth grade, exemplifying the virtues of kindness and leadership. His academic journey continued at Grand Island Sr. High, where he graduated in 1959, and later at Concordia University Nebraska, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Education in 1964. It is also here at Concordia University where He met his future wife Nelda Pitsch. They married in 1964. His thirst for knowledge and his commitment to the Gospel led him to Concordia Seminary in Springfield, Illinois, where he studied from 1972-1975.

Before heeding the call to full-time ministry, Duane enriched the minds and spirits of students as a teacher at Zion Lutheran School in Omaha, NE, and Trinity Lutheran School in Cheyenne, WY. His passion for education was a testament to his belief in the transformative power of teaching. In 1975, after his vicarage and ordination, Duane embarked on a lifelong vocation in ministry, serving congregations in Nebraska and Wyoming with unwavering dedication. His pastoral journey included nurturing the faithful in Rushville and Hay Springs, Douglas and Glenrock, Jackson Hole, Deshler and Shickley, Sundance and Moorcroft, and finally, in Buffalo.

Pastor Simonson's achievements extended beyond his pastoral duties. He was instrumental in establishing mission churches, notably in Star Valley, Wyoming, and Thompson Falls, Montana. His leadership roles included serving as a Wyoming District Missionary at Large, a member of the LCMS Mission Board, a Circuit Visitor, and a Pastoral Advisor in both the Nebraska and Wyoming Districts. His guidance was pivotal as Chairman of the Nebraska District Mission Commission and while serving on the Wyoming LCMS Board of Directors.

Duane's personal life was as rich and fulfilling as his professional endeavors. He was a devoted husband to Nelda Jean (Pitsch) Simonson, an unwavering father to Tasha(Don), Stacy, Curtis, Joshua, and Gretchen, and a proud grandfather to Caleb (Kaylee), Hannah, Alex, Jackson, Aurora, Jesse, Giovanni, Onon, Christopher, Paisley, and Journey. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the values he so cherished. He was loved by many nephews and nieces, and his sister Sylvia. Preceded in death were his wife Nelda, his father Onon, his mother Frieda and his brothers Dean and Robert and his son in law Rick.

Outside of his ministry, Duane was an ardent lover of the great outdoors. He found joy in hunting, trap shooting, and traversing the mountains in search of moose and other wildlife. His love for photography allowed him to capture the beauty of God's creation, which he shared with all who knew him. Duane's enthusiasm for card games like Pinochle, Pitch, and Cribbage brought laughter and camaraderie to many gatherings. Above all, his favorite pastime was sharing the Word of God, a hobby that he considered his life's greatest work.

Pastor Duane Roland Simonson's legacy is one of faith, love, and service. His light shone brightly as a beacon of hope, guiding others to find peace and purpose in the Lord. As we celebrate his life, we take solace in knowing that Duane has been welcomed into the eternal embrace of his Creator, leaving behind a world that is immeasurably better for his presence. His memory will forever be cherished, and his teachings will continue to inspire for generations to come.