Duane Smith

Duane R. Smith, age 97 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Monday, July 15, 2019 at Our House Memory Care, Austin. Duane was born in ­­­­Rock Dell Township, Olmsted County, Minnesota on February 15, 1922 to Noel and Olga (Thorson) Smith. He attended country school in Olmsted County. On October 23, 1948 he was united in marriage to Darlene Jeglum at East St. Olaf, Rock Dell, Minnesota. After marrying the couple lived in Rochester and moved to Austin in 1951. Duane was enlisted in the United States 5th Army Italy and proudly severed his country in World War II. He worked for 33 years in the meat processing department at Hormel. Duane was a member of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church, where he ushered for 56 years. Duane loved the outdoors, including fishing and hunting. He was always helpful to others in the time of need. Duane will be dearly missed by his friends and family.

Survivors include two sons, Lee (Cindy) Smith of Austin, Minnesota, Eric Smith of Orono, Minnesota; one sister, Carol (Bob) Bartel of Rochester, Minnesota; one brother, Jim (Patricia) Smith of Salem Township, Olmsted County, Minnesota; three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Noel and Olga Smith; wife, Darlene Smith; son, Randy Smith.

Memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, July 29, 2019 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Mark Niethammer officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota. Military honors by the American Legion Post 91 and V.F.W. Post 1216. Services are prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.