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Duane Elliot Dlouhy, 56

Duane, Lou, Double-D, #90, our husband, brother, father, son, brother-in-law, son-in-law, father-in-law, uncle, friend, and most importantly — Papa, passed away in his wife’s arms on June 5, 2017, after a gallant battle with cancer. #dlouhystrong

Dlouhy was the third boy born on July 25, 1960, in Roswell, N.M., to William and Ana Mae Dlouhy. Dlouhy lived in Roswell until 1967 and was known in the neighborhood as the boy who sat in trees wearing his Superman outfit. Dlouhy exhibited athletic prowess early on — he was a very fast runner as he was often chased by his older brothers, Dave and Darrell.

Dlouhy finished elementary school in Grand Forks, N.D., where he enjoyed playing all sports. He even had his dad build an ice rink in the back yard so he could learn to play hockey. Ultimately, he shined in football and basketball. The Dlouhy family moved to Coeur d’Alene in 1970 where Duane dominated as an All-State Player for the Vikings in both football and basketball.

Dlouhy earned a full-ride scholarship to Boise State, where lifelong friendships with teammates and coaches began. His catch, on 4th down with 12 seconds remaining, enabled Boise State to capture the 1980 I-AA National Championship. Dlouhy was named Honorable Mention All-American in 1981. Dlouhy signed a free agent contract with the Washington Redskins. Although the NFL was not Duane’s destiny, being a Bronco was. After his time with the Redskins, Boise State coaches came calling once again. Due to his impressive five-minute mile and athletic skills, he was awarded a basketball scholarship. The next season, he played football for the Arizona Wrangers in the USFL. He ended his playing career by joining Boise State’s football staff as a tight-end coach.

When Duane walked into Thiry Chiropractic office and saw Debbie Duke it was love at first sight for both of them. Their courtship only lasted three-months yet their marriage has lasted a lifetime. During their 34-year marriage, they welcomed Dustin, Drue and Demi to their family. Dustin was a defensive end for the University of Montana and Demi played volleyball at Lewis-Clark State College. Drue, his daughter, gave him his first grandchildren, Ellie and Halle Hatfield. Although Dlouhy was an accomplished athlete, he considered his greatest accomplishment to be what he created with Debbie.

In 1986, Dlouhy left the football field for a position in Utah where he began his 20-year career in the automotive industry. His career took the family to Twin Falls and Idaho Falls where the children were raised on sports, road trips and laughter. In early 2007, Dlouhy, determined to see his youngest daughter play all her college games, relocated to his roots in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where he worked at Pita Pit USA serving as director of construction. Dlouhy was thankful for all Pita Pit gave to him, as they added numerous cherished memories and experiences for his family. Dlouhy’s lifelong dream of owning a boat was realized a few years ago when he christened the Coeur D’louhy. The many days and nights spent on the lake were filled with smiles and laughter, enjoying his favorite things, family, friends and great music.

Dlouhy is survived by his mother, Ana Mae Dlouhy; his brothers, David (Ali) and Darrel (Val); wife Debbie; children Dustin (Meg), Drue (Darrin Hatfield) and Demi (Andrew Miller); grandchildren Ellie and Halle Grae “bows and toes.” He is preceded in death by his father, William Dlouhy and sister-in-law Debbie Sears Dlouhy.

This quote found on BroncoCountry.com depicts Dlouhy both on and off the field; “Duane Dlouhy was one of our best players though his stats wouldn’t indicate greatness… he was simply reliable and seemed always there when you needed a play.”

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, June 16, 2017, at Lake City Church in Coeur d’Alene. Family requests lake-day casual attire.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Duane’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage all who wish to honor him to donate to the Duane E. Dlouhy Memorial Fund at Community 1st Bank, 435 W. Hanley, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. Contact Ann Siebert, (208) 635-7177.

Goodnight George.