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Duane Carpenter Obituary
Duane Daniel Carpenter, a Santa Cruz native died Friday, Dec. 11th following a car accident on Highway 17. He was born August 16, 1949
Duane graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1967. He then joined the United States Army where he served his country in the Viet Nam war. Duane was honored with the prestigious Purple Heart award for wounds received while courageously saving many soldiers in his platoon; he also received the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service.
Duane was the founder, owner and operator of the U-Save Fire Extinguisher Company for the past 23 years. His business flourished, as he had many loyal customers throughout Santa Cruz County and beyond.
Duane liked a good poker game, was interested in classic muscle cars, custom motorcycles and he loved his cat Rascal. He is preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Margaret Carpenter and his brother Val Carpenter.
Duane is survived by his loving wife, April and two stepchildren, Mitchell and Carlee of Santa Cruz. His sister Kathryn Vantrease and brother in law James Vantrease of Felton. His sister in law Ina Carpenter of Anchorage, Alaska, his three nephews Ryan Myers of Soquel, Ray and Kyle Carpenter of Anchorage, Alaska and his cousin Nolan Roth.
Graveside services will be held at Santa Cruz Memorial Park, 1927 Ocean St. on Friday, January 8th @ 4:00 p.m. A gathering of families and friends will follow the services at the family home. Arrangements entrusted to Santa Cruz Memorial.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Duane Carpenter
4 Entries
DALE KAUPP
April 13, 2025
Duane was my brother Mark's friend. I remember his silver 59 Chevy w 409 motor, 2-4 barrel carbs and the barefoot gas pedal. It was fast.... RIP
January 9, 2010
Duane was a Great guy. I was down on my luck, sleeping in my car, cold no blankets, money or food, he offered me a place to stay a warm shower and fed me. Thanks Duane and rest in peace. I will never forget you.A brief friend
Kathy Vantrease
January 9, 2010
Surrounded by family, friends and love. A perfect Santa Cruz day to lay my brother to rest.I Love you Duane. Your sister,Kathy.
Robert Borelli
January 5, 2010
Duane was always a great guy and a good friend. Always remember 67 seniors.My prayers go out to the family
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