Duane A. Beaser, 77, of Melrose, went to his heavenly home on August 29, 2021, under the care of Black River Memorial Hospice. He was born January, 24, 1944 at Krohn Hospital, to Edward and Helen (Stratton) Beaser.

After graduating from Melrose High School Duane farmed with his father for three years while working part-time as a mechanic before enlisting in the Army National Guard on May 10, 1965. He proudly served his country for 23 years while also working at Fort McCoy as a Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic. He was a proud member of the Neil S. Lewison American Legion Post #139. After resigning from the National Guard and Fort McCoy he joined the Town of Irving where he worked for 18 years as a patrolman. When he retired from the Town of Irving he worked part-time for the Town of Franklin as apatrolman. Upon full retirement he remained busy by delivering meals to the elderly for the Jackson County Aging Unit and volunteering countless hours of service to the Melrose United Methodist Church.

Duane was an avid antique tractors collector and puller and won many competitions over the years. At one time in his career he owned 23 antique tractors and 14 gas engines, he even purchased an eliminator with his brother, Raymond. He also enjoyed bird watching and had many bird feeders and houses. Every day he walked his “little man”, Rusty, around town and visited friends and neighbors.

Duane married Marjorie Peterson on October 25, 1969, she preceded him in death. On April 5, 1997, he married Nancy (Brown) Zarcone. Duane is survived by his wife Nancy, her children Scott (Diane) Olstad, Ruth (Rudy) Garbers, Mark (Kalei) Zarcone his brothers Raymond (Gloria) Beaser and Marvin Beaser, 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and first wife and special pets Abby, Whitley, Peppy, and Thumbs.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 pm on Saturday, September 4, 2020, with funeral services at 3:00 at the Melrose United Methodist Church, 101 Douglas Street, Melrose, WI 54642. Graveside services with full Military Honors to follow at the Melrose Cemetery. Luncheon will follow in the church basement. Reverend Roberta (Robbie) Nowicki will officiate. Due to current church requirements those attending will be required to wear a mask.

Coulee Region Cremation Group, Onalaska, is assisting the family in their time of loss.