Duane Lee Furan

Duane graduated from Logan High School in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He completed his first year of college at UW-LaCrosse before transferring to the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he received his Bachelor’s Degree. He would later also receive a Law Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and true to Badger tradition he caught his cane over the goal post at Camp Randall. Duane was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) Fraternity.

Duane joined ROTC, which afforded him the opportunity for his schooling. He proudly served as a Naval Officer and was stationed on the USS Begor. Duane cherished friendship and maintained close relationships with lifelong friends from high school, college and the service throughout his life.

After graduating from law school he returned to La Crosse and started his career as an Attorney.

He married Mary Lou Weigel in 1958. Together they lived in Onalaska where they would raise their five children. They later divorced.

On March 24, 2006, Duane married Karen Gilbertson in Naples, Florida. Duane and Karen enjoyed spending time together, taking cruises, dining out and dancing.

Duane worked for Wilson & Johnson in Naples, Florida for many years. The firm was wonderful to him and he enjoyed the people, so much so that he continued to work up until the onset of his brief illness. Had he not fallen ill he would still be working. He was always going to retire after ‘one more tax season’.

Duane is survived by his wife, Karen; son, Scott Furan of West Salem, WI; daughters, Amy Dwyer of Bangor, WI, Tracey Furan of Waunakee, WI, Tracy Pedersen of Naples, FL and Ellen (Joe) Runkel of Madison, WI; grandchildren, Alycia Furan, Rachel Beranek, Lauren Johnson, Elizabeth Pedersen, Madeline Johnson, Matthew Pedersen and Jacob Furan and sister-in-law; Margaret Furan of Muncie, IN.

Additionally, he is survived by his stepchildren; Kim (Rich) Heal of LaCrosse, WI, Brian Gilbertson of Sarasota, FL, Shari Gilbertson of Sarasota, FL, Michelle (Jeff) Buikema of Trempealeau, WI and step grandchildren; Kassie (Michael) Knight, Dylan Johnson and Reid Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Robert “Bobby” Furan and one son, Thomas Furan.

To honor Duane’s wishes, there will be no services. The family would like to extend special appreciation to the Attorneys and staff of Wilson & Johnson and to AVOW Hospice. Also, a special thank you to Todd Pedersen for providing companionship and ‘technical support’ during his illness. Remembrances in Duane’s name can be made to Avow Hospice, Naples FL.