Duane W. Calkins

Duane W. Calkins, 82, of La Crosse, died on Sunday February 21, 2021, in his home surrounded by his family. He was born in La Crosse on November 20, 1938 to Edward and Leona (Mitchell) Calkins. He married Donna Kimball on August 20, 1959 in La Crosse and they were happily married for 52 years.

Duane graduated from Aquinas High School, then served in the U.S. Navy. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 37 years, the last 9 as the Postmaster in Ettrick, WI. He loved hunting, fishing and reading, especially history. His favorite subject was the Civil War and read extensively about it and visited many of the historical sites. He was a kind, generous, honorable, and humble man. He will always be remembered as a great storyteller.

He is survived by his 4 children, Tony (Karen) Calkins, Kevin (Anne) Calkins, Kim (Pat) McMahon, and Mark Calkins; 9 grandchildren, Gabe (Shannon), Melissa (Mike), Kristin, Nick (Samme), Andrea (Justin), Anthony (Erin), Matt (Kelly), Jacqueline (Simon), and Angela; 9 great-grandchildren, Austin, Payton, Coltin, Nathan, Dylan, Remy, James, Elanora, and Isla, and many nieces and nephews.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents; wife Donna; four siblings Eldora, Harriet, Geraldine, and Bud, and one granddaughter Amanda.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, a private family Mass is going to be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in La Crosse. Rev. Rick Roberts will officiate, with inurnment to be held in Oak Grove Cemetery. The family plans to have a celebration of life for Duane at a later date.