Duane C. Steinke

Duane C. Steinke, age 78, of Wisconsin Rapids (Town of Grant), passed away Friday, September 6, 2024 at Aspirus Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids.
Services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church in Kellner. Rev. Matthew Lorfeld will officiate. Burial will be at St. John Lutheran Parish Cemetery. The family will greet relatives and friends from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service on Thursday at the church.
Duane was born June 18, 1946 in Wisconsin Rapids to Fred and Irene (Knipple) Steinke. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Wisconsin Rapids. Following graduation, Duane worked at Preway and Paperboard Products in Wisconsin Rapids until joining the United States Navy. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Duane held several jobs including working at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield, Industrial Plastics in Wisconsin Rapids, crop harvesting, and Walmart where he worked until retirement.
Duane was an avid Wisconsin sports fan and enjoyed watching the Brewers and Packers. He also enjoyed watching game shows and listening to polka music. Duane was a devoted member of St. John Lutheran Church in Kellner where he served in various capacities including serving on the Board of Elders and Cemetery Committee and as an usher. He was an active member of the Lutheran Laymen’s League and a proud supporter of Lutheran Hour Ministries.
Duane is survived by his siblings: Jean Elmer, Vernon Steinke, Kathy Jackson, and Marge (Jeff) Gellerman all of Wisconsin Rapids, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ruth Neinfeldt; and brothers: Raymond Steinke, Fred Steinke, Myron Steinke, Leon Steinke, and Melvin Steinke.
Duane’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Amy with Portage County and the staff at Cranberry Court Assisting Living in Wisconsin Rapids.
Memorials may be designated to St. John Lutheran Church in Kellner.
Herman-Taylor Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family.