Duane Burton Ranstrom

Duane was born on April 22, 1944, to Melvin Rudolph Ranstrom and Bertha Hildre in Grand Forks, North Dakota. He spent his childhood growing up on the family farm in Alvarado, Minnesota.

He attended Warren High School and, following graduation, served in the Army National Guard from 1961 to 1964. He was stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and was honorably discharged. Shortly before beginning college, Duane traveled overseas, visiting several countries. Among the places he treasured most were Jerusalem and the Sea of Galilee, where his faith was strengthened and his love for Jesus grew even deeper.

Duane later attended Avila College in Kansas City, Missouri, studying from 1971 to 1975, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with minors in psychology and religious education.

Continuing his commitment to service, Duane obtained a dietary management diploma from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. He dedicated many years to his career as a Dietary Manager, eventually becoming a director. He was well respected in his field, representing dietary professionals across all 50 states. He served on numerous committees and traveled to Washington, D.C. several times, advocating for causes he believed in and caring deeply about the people he served.

Duane was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Gina Tampipi Ranstrom. Their love story began long-distance, and in a beautiful testament to his commitment and devotion, Duane traveled to the Philippines for her. They shared 24 years of marriage built on faith, love, and perseverance. He was a proud and loving father to his daughters, Angelina Marie Ranstrom and Ariana Teneille Ranstrom, who were the joy of his life.

Duane found peace in life’s simple gifts. He loved music, cooking, baking, writing, art, and taking long walks. Some of his fondest childhood memories were fishing at Lake Bemidji in Minnesota. As a family, he cherished time spent fishing together at Lake Jacomo and Longview Lake.

Music was especially close to Duane’s heart. He even wrote his own song, titled “My Teenage Queen.” His favorite artists included Elvis Presley, Circuit Riders, and The Carpenters.

He loved Christmas music, particularly “Merry Christmas Darling” by The Carpenters. His faith was reflected in the hymns he cherished most, including “How Great Thou Art” and “The Old Rugged Cross,” sung by Elvis.

Duane’s love for baking and art was something he shared with his children, leaving a lasting imprint on their lives. He had a special gift for staying connected, writing letters to friends and family and making every effort to keep in touch with those he loved.

He also had a deep love for animals, especially cats, whose companionship brought him comfort and joy.

Above all, Duane loved Jesus. His faith shaped the way he lived, loved, and served others, and it sustained him throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Gina Ranstrom; his daughters, Angelina Ranstrom and Ariana Ranstrom; his half-brothers, Jerry Hildre, Michael Sink, and James Sink; as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 with visitation at 1:00 PM and the service at 2:00 PM at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home.

In addition to flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, organizations close to Duane’s heart.

We find comfort in knowing that Duane’s legacy lives on through the love he shared, the faith he lived by, and the memories we will cherish forever. We thank God for Heaven.