Duane Eugene Brunkhardt, 76 years of age, passed away on February 17th.

Duane was born on November 17th, 1947, to August and Elvina (Mohrlang) Brunkhardt. He was raised on his family's dairy farm between Hillrose and Merino, CO. Duane graduated from Hillrose High School in 1965. He then attended Colorado State University studying animal science.

Duane enlisted in the Army and served in the Vietnam War with the 82nd Airborne Division. He received a Bronze Star medal and several commendations. He was very proud of his service to our country. His Army rucksack, combat fatigues, jungle hats and helicopter helmet outfitted his children for endless adventures.

Duane was a country boy through and through. He was selected to tour numerous countries in Europe with the Future Farmers of America and brought back many items from his travels that are now family heirlooms.  He had a passion for animals whether they were livestock or stray cats and loved to care for all of them. He had a knack for growing plants, in the fields early in life and a jungle of house plants in his latter years. As every farm boy from Northeastern Colorado would say, we need some moisture.

Duane was humble in spirit and pure in heart by nature, a man of few words. His grandchildren and great grandson had a special place in his heart. He was their rock and hero in their eyes, always there for a visit or call.

Duane is preceded in death by his father and mother, August and Elvina Brunkhardt; and brother-in-law Cecil Krueger.

Duane is survived by: daughter Marlene (Travis) Grippin; sons Mike (Kim) Brunkhardt and Martin Brunkhardt; 6 grandchildren: Cheyenne, Austen, Halley, Kassidy, Kenna and Benjamin; one great-grandson Breck. Also, sisters, Lucille Krueger, Carol (Heinz) Schwartz, Barbara (Terry) Crowder and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be determined at a later date.  Cremation services were provided by Heer Mortuary with cremains to be interned at Brush Cemetery veteran's section.