Duane Harold Darnell

Duane Harold Darnell, age 81 of Elmore, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at Valleyview Care Center in Armstrong, IA. Funeral service will be Saturday, March 14, 2020 at Patton Funeral Home in Blue Earth at 10 AM with Rev. Dr. Mark Brickzin officiating. Visitation will be from 4-6 PM Friday, March 13 at Patton Funeral Home. Interment with military honors will follow in Riverview Cemetery in Elmore.

Patton Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. www.PattonFH.com

Duane Harold Darnell was born August 7, 1938 to John and Belle (Anderson) Darnell of Ledyard, Iowa. Duane graduated from Ledyard high school in 1956, after graduation he enlisted in the US Navy and upon completion, returned back to Ledyard where he started farming with his dad. Duane raised many baby calves but for the most part he was a grain farmer. Duane married Marlys Krosch on December 19, 1970 at the Elmore Methodist Church. He and Marlys did some traveling, but he was very happy to just stay home and enjoy coffee and fellowship with many special friends. Duane will be remembered for helping anyone and everyone in need. He had a large close-knit group of real friends that he spent much time with. He especially enjoyed his 2 hour coffee time every day at the Elmore restaurant. He was a member of the Christ Community Church in Blue Earth. 

Duane is survived by his wife of 50 years, Marlys Darnell of Elmore; sister, Karen Gilbertson of Ledyard and many nieces, nephew and several other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law; brothers in law, Jon Gilbertson and Merlyn (Marilyn) Krosch.