Zarneke, Duane (Zeke)

Duane (Zeke) Zarneke, 91, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, peacefully passed away in his sleep at home on March 6, 2013.

Duane was born Sept. 14, 1921, in South Dakota. Duane was a decorated veteran of World War II, a pilot in the Air Corps. He was a graduate of the University of Dakota Wesleyan in Mitchell, S.D. He met and married his wife, Ardis Hegvold in 1947. She preceded him in death in January 1991.

Duane owned and operated the Spudnut Shop in Cedar Rapids in the early 1950s. From there he completed his teaching degree at Coe College. He taught history at North-Linn in Troy Mills, Iowa, until his retirement.

Duane is survived by his daughters, Ellen (Maury) Heier and Gail (Jim) Miller; and son, Bruce Zarneke. He is also survived by grandchildren, Shane, Maury, Eric, Alyssa and Christopher Heier, Roxanne (Miller) Harrison and Bonnie (Miller) Sain; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; grandson, Ryan Heier; along with many relatives and great friends.

Duane had many personal accomplishments. Most recently, he participated in the Honor Flight.

Duane was a very generous soul. He lived life his way. He loved deeply. His greatest joy was his own sense of humor.

A private family service has been provided by Cedar Memorial.

Published in The Gazette March 12, 2013.