Duane N. Hoeper

Duane Hoeper, 79, of Stephen, died on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, in Sanford on Broadway, Fargo, ND.

Duane Nicholas Hoeper was born on October 20, 1941, in Warren, MN, to Nicholas and Amy (Steer) Hoeper. “Buddy,” as he was called from an early age, grew up in Stephen and spent his whole life in the town. In 1961, Buddy enlisted in the US Army, serving until his honorable discharge in 1963. Upon his return home, he made acquaintance with Pat Lubarski at the drive-in restaurant in Argyle, MN where she worked.

Duane and Patricia were united in marriage on June 18, 1966, in St. Rose Catholic Church, Argyle, MN. The couple made their home in Stephen where they raised five children and lived-out an example of marriage for 54 years. Buddy worked 30 years for Farmers Grain Co. as an assistant elevator manager. After his retirement, he found he couldn't just sit still and found work with a number of area farmers and businesses. Between hauling grain and cross-country trucking, Buddy kept busy, while always putting his family first.

Buddy loved his grandchildren and cherished every moment with them. He enjoyed taking care of his immaculate yard, planting his little garden (especially flowers), hunting, traveling, and spending time with his best friend, Gene Gajeski. Though he didn't live to see the final election results, Buddy was a die hard Trump fan.

In addition to his wife, Pat; Duane is survived by his children, Donna Boudreau of Orange, MA, Scot (Lana) Hoeper of Argyle, Shelley (John) Bentes of Moseley, VA, Lisa (Avery) Binstock of Urbandale, IA, and Tanya (Kris) Friesen of Barnesville, MN; 15 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; siblings, Delores Flaten, Roger Hoeper (Pam Hogenson), Vicky (Ron) Weiland, and Loren (Kristie) Hoeper; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandchildren, Colby and Amber Hoeper; brother, Leverne; and brother-in-law, Carroll Flaten.

PRIVATE FAMILY SERVICE: Thursday, November 12, 2020, in First Lutheran Church, Stephen, MN.
PUBLIC GRAVESIDE SERVICE: to follow on Thursday, November 12, at 2:30 PM, in Stephen (City) Cemetery, Stephen, MN. Masks are required.
MILITARY HONORS: Stephen American Legion, Post 390; and the Minnesota Honor Guard.