Duane R. Mayer

Duane R. Mayer, 80, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2024, while surrounded by family.
Duane was born on September 25, 1943, to Richard and Delores Mayer in Rockford, IL. Duane grew up in Green Bay, WI, and enjoyed playing basketball, golfing and sneaking into the Green Bay Packers practice field to watch the team play. After graduating from Premontre High School in Green Bay, Duane went on to attend UW Oshkosh, where he received a bachelor’s degree in economics.
Duane married Katherine Van Den Berg in 1966. Duane and Kathy went on to have four children and 13 grandchildren. Their family was Duane’s biggest priority and proudest accomplishment.
In 2000, Duane retired after a 33-year career with Consolidated Papers. At the time of his retirement, Duane was the director of transportation, a position he held for nine years.
During retirement, Duane enjoyed golfing, traveling, and supporting his grandchildren in their athletic and academic pursuits. Duane will be remembered for his sense of humor, generosity and eagerness to provide for his family. Duane was a dedicated fan of his favorite athletic teams: the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Wisconsin Rapids Raiders, SPASH Panthers, East Ridge Raptors and Port Edwards Blackhawks.
Duane Mayer is survived by: his wife, Katherine Mayer; his siblings, Diane (Nancy) Mayer, Doug (Barbara) Mayer, Donna (Chester) Mayer-Leialoha and Daniel Mayer; his step-siblings, Thomas Rentmeester, Donna Gerrits-Deck and Peter (Cindy) Rentmeester; and his children, Kristi (Robert) Franks, Theresa (Joseph) Johnson, Amy (Scott) Morrison and David (Lindsay) Mayer; and his grandchildren: Robert and Benjamin Franks; Logan, Lukas, Jordyn and Alex Schraeder; Carter, Delainey, Tatum and McQuaid Morrison; and Kaleb and Lenna Mayer. Duane was preceded in death by: his parents, Richard and Delores Mayer; his step-father, Richard Rentmeester; his brother, Dennis Mayer; and his granddaughter, Samantha Schraeder.
Duane’s family would like to thank the Aspirus Hospice staff for their kindness and support. A family celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of sending flowers, Duane’s family asks that donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House.