Duane Bowen

Duane Bowen, age 87, of Black River Falls, passed away Tuesday, August 9, 2022 at his home. He was
born March 27, 1935 in Black River Falls to Glenn and Frances (Dunnigan) Bowen. Duane was united in
marriage to Darlene Jaqua on June 27, 1970 in Minneapolis.
Duane was graduated from Black River Falls High School, and received a Bachelor’s Degree from
University of Minnesota, and Master’s Degree from Montana State University. His career spanned 30
years in education at Alexandria Technical Community College in Alexandria, Minnesota. Upon
retirement from education, he returned to Black River Falls in 2001.
Duane was active with a variety of activities in retirement. He served as Director of the Neighborhood
Food Panty for five years, volunteered for Interfaith Caregivers, BRMH Hospice Program, and Jackson
Correctional Institution. He entertained residents of Pine View Care Center with organ programs for a
number of years. Duane was the organist for St. Joseph’s Catholic Church since 2002. Duane was a life
member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, National Education Association, America
Vocational Association, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Duane is survived by sisters, Colleen (Michael) Peterson of Ham Lake, MN, and Jane Rand (Jim Nortman)
of Black River Falls, WI; nieces, Jill (Jason) Anderson of East Bethel, MN, Nina (Matt) Rihn of Madison,
WI, and Chica Janicki (John Larson) of Osseo, WI; nephew, Brett Peterson (Heidi Kerry) of International
Falls, MN; additionally, he is survived by three great nieces and two great nephews.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Darlene and his parents, and his fur buddy Tipper.
Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, August 22, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic
Church. Father Arivu will officiate. Family and friends are welcome to visitation at 10:00 a.m. until time
of service. Burial will immediately follow at Riverside Cemetery with Military Honors accorded.
Memorials may be given to Interfaith Caregivers, BRMH Hospice, and Jackson County Animal Shelter.
The Buswell Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements, 715-284-2231.