Duane Wilber Hunt, 86

Duane Wilber Hunt, 86, of Polson, passed away peacefully Feb. 16, 2021, in Keizer, Ore. Duane was born March 21, 1934, to Mabel and Harold Hunt in Batesland, S.D.

As a teenager Duane helped his mother on the family farm. Duane entered the U.S. Army and served as a helicopter mechanic. He also learned how to play poker and competed in marksmanship.

In 1964, he met Margaret Smith. They eloped and wed within six weeks of meeting. They moved, with their horses and dogs, to Montana, where they bought a ranch outside of Polson. They went on to have three children: Cindy, Becki and Wes. They were together for 29 years before divorcing.

Duane found love a second time when he met Betty Jane Sandvig. They married and enjoyed playing cribbage and took many road trips together until Jane’s passing.

Duane supported his family by working in the woods, building logging roads. His real passion, though, was ranching. He was proud of his nickname “Cowboy” and always wore a cowboy hat and boots. He enjoyed reading westerns, riding horses and drinking coffee with his friends. Anyone who knew Duane knew that he was very proud of his children.

He was predeceased by his parents and his nine siblings. Duane is survived by his children, Cindy Hunt (Amanda Parish) of Keizer, Ore., Rebecca Bodnar of Carson City, Nev., and Wes Hunt (Cayley Hunt) of Bozeman; his stepson, Eddy Hanson of Polson; his grandchildren, Tracy Garcia and Logan Garcia (Tienne Garcia); his great-grandchildren Carson, Cerise and Amelie; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

There will be a viewing from 1 to 5 p.m., Feb. 25 at The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory. A memorial service will be held in the summer.

Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be sent to Willamette Lutheran Retirement Home, 7693 Wheatland Road North, Keizer, OR 97303. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.