Duane Russell Benson, 61

Duane Benson, 61, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2015. Born July 22, 1954, to JoAnn and William Heerlein in Rhinebeck, N.Y., he traversed the United States living in six states and Canada during his school years before graduating in 1973 from Sparks High School in Sparks, Nev.

Not many years after, he and his wife, Carol Luis, ventured away to set roots in Rathdrum, Idaho. Life in North Idaho was meant for Duane. Duane worked in HVAC and sheet metal during his work history. These trades were taught to him by the late Bill Luis, a very dear influence in his life. Duane leaves behind his beloved daughter, Krista Hoadley (Ben); devoted granddaughters Haylin and Maci; mother JoAnn Benson; brother Brett Benson; sisters Faith Swope (Larry), Leabeth Luis (Thomas), Melissa Laughlin-Guerra (Dennis), Heather Kotz (Daniel) and Rebecca Moser (Kenneth); and many nieces and nephews.

Through the years Duane enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, four-wheeling and most recently doting on his granddaughters. He will be forever missed by the many people he touched with his loyalty, great sense of humor and huge heart.

Family and friends are welcome to join a celebration of his life at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, at English Funeral Chapel, 1133 N. Fourth St., Coeur d'Alene. There will be a potluck gathering onsite after the service. Please visit Duane's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.