Duane C. Sonnenburg, born June 13, 1941, in Clear Lake, South Dakota, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on March 19, 2026, entering his eternal home in heaven with the same steady faith and gentle spirit that guided his earthly life. He was baptized on August 14, 1942 and confirmed his faith on April 3, 1955, beginning a lifelong walk with Christ that shaped his character, his service, and his love for others.

Duane grew up on the family farm in Estelline, South Dakota, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, and lending a hand wherever help was needed. He graduated from Estelline High School in 1959 and later went to a business school to prepare him for his career.

On January 7, 1961, he married the love of his life, Karen Williams. Their 65 years together were marked by deep devotion, partnership, and joy. They truly did everything side by side—raising their family, serving their church, camping, gardening, and supporting one another through every season of life. Karen was not only his wife, but his closest companion, his encourager, and the person with whom he shared every ordinary day and every extraordinary moment.

Duane spent more than 40 years with U.S. Bank, retiring at age 60. His reliability, kindness, and strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike.

For 63 years, Duane was a dedicated member of Pilgrim Lutheran Church and School. He volunteered in countless ways—serving on boards and committees, supporting the school, and stepping into whatever role was needed. His service was never about recognition; it was simply an expression of his faith and his generous heart.

Duane found joy in many things, especially the people he loved. He rarely missed a game, concert, musical, graduation, or special event for his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. He loved humming and singing, watching classic Westerns and The Andy Griffith Show, camping trips (including time spent volunteering at Camp Croix), and a good piece of candy. He also took great pride in the harvest from their garden and enjoyed using it in his cooking—another way he shared love with those around him.

Duane will be remembered for his strong faith in the Lord, his deep love for his family, his warm smile and unmistakable dimples, his booming voice, and his joyful, welcoming spirit. He made people feel seen, valued, and loved—often with just a few words or a hearty laugh.

He is survived by his wife, Karen (Williams) Sonnenburg; his brothers LeRoy (Judy), Curtis (Louise), Ricky (Nancy), and Steven (Roxy); his sons Alan (Jessica), Paul (Karen), Brad, and Gary (Cami Jo); grandchildren Katie, Ashley, Ryan, Joshua, Tyler, Amanda, Erik, Kalli, and Leah Grace; greatgrandchildren Bobby, Logan, Isabelle, Emerson, Jameson Duane, Quinn, Carter, Gavin, Marshall, Levi, Mason, and Cooper; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

A service to celebrate his earthly life—and now his eternal life in heaven—will be held on Tuesday, March 31st at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, 3901 1st Avenue S, Minneapolis, MN. Wake at 10:00 a.m., service at 11:00 a.m. The Service will be live-streamed at:

https://www.youtube.com/live/raSuqX5q0BY?si=rEqYnGr42vhhsgRU

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Camp Croix. Donations may be made online at https://campcroix.org/donate or mailed to Camp Croix, 802 Maple Grove Rd, Duluth, MN 55811.