Duane Olin Comeau

Born on May 17, 1931, passed away on December 25, 2025, at the age of 94. He was a resident of Tucson, Arizona.

Duane Olin Comeau, born May 17, 1931, in Potter County, South Dakota, passed away on December 25, 2025, in Tucson, AZ after a long and full life marked by service, hard work, music, and deep devotion to family and community. He was the son of Olin E. and Altha Comeau and grew up with his siblings Dean, Donna, and Daniel, all of whom preceded him in death.

Duane’s childhood was rooted in the prairie, where he attended one room country schools from 1937 to 1945. He went on to Gettysburg High School, graduating in 1949. Music was a lifelong passion, and during his school years he was especially active in band, where he played the tuba with enthusiasm.

On June 24, 1951, Duane married Bonnie Jean Rogers, beginning a partnership that shaped the course of his life. Later that year, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving as a teletype mechanic during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant on October 31, 1955.

In April 1956, Duane founded what would become Comeau Plumbing & Heating, a business he built through skill, grit, and a steadfast commitment to helping others. As one of the few plumbing and heating services in the area, he was known for answering calls at all hours and in all kinds of weather, ensuring neighbors stayed warm and safe. He operated the business until selling it in 1993.

Faith and service were central to Duane’s life. A member of the Gettysburg United Methodist Church since 1943, he began singing in the choir in 1945 and continued lending his voice to church choirs and community singing groups for seven decades, until 2015. He served the church in many leadership roles, including Chairman of the Administrative Board and Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

Duane was also deeply involved in civic and fraternal organizations. He was a lifetime member of American Legion Post #135, where he served as Post Commander. He served on the boards of Oahe Manor, Wesleyan Homes, the Gettysburg Memorial Hospital, and the Potter County School Board. He was a past Master of Ionic Masonic Lodge #83, a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason, a past Noble of the Yelduz Shrine, and a former member of the Elks Lodge.

In 1993, Duane moved to Sioux Falls, where he worked for Howe Heating and Plumbing until 1999. He then returned to self employment until his “first retirement” in 2007, a milestone he approached with his trademark humor. That same year, he moved to Arizona, where he renovated two homes in Pueblo Estates, Green Valley, pouring his craftsmanship and pride into each project.

Duane loved the outdoors, especially fishing for walleye on Lake Oahe during his years in South Dakota. In his later years, he developed a fond appreciation for wine, enjoying a glass with family and friends.

Duane is survived by his children Debra (Burnell) Glanzer of Armour, SD; Scott Comeau of Lincoln, NE; and Corey (Dawn) Comeau of Tucson, AZ. He leaves behind six grandchildren—Chris (Kate) Egert, Ryan (Lauren) Comeau, Jordan Williamson, Talia Williamson, Christian Comeau, and Colton Comeau—and two great grandchildren, Dakota Egert and Delaney Egert and many nieces and nephews.

Duane’s life was defined by service, music, craftsmanship, and a generous spirit. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

A memorial service will be held at Funeraria del Angel Catalina, located at 3435 N First Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719, on January 22, 2026, at 10:30 am.

An interment ceremony will follow at Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at Marana, located at 15950 N Luckett Rd, Marana, AZ 85653, on January 22, 2026,