Duane Matthew Kirscht

Duane Matthew Kirscht passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025. Surrounded by family. He was 90 years old. Known for his steady presence, generous heart, and deep devotion to family, Duane leaves behind a legacy built on kindness, loyalty, and a life lived with quiet purpose. 

Born on January 6th 1936, in Buffalo, Minnesota, on the family dairy farm, Duane grew up with a passion for sports that shaped much of his life. Baseball was his first love, and he pursued it with determination and joy. In his younger years, he played minor league baseball in Minnesota, an experience he cherished and spoke of often. He was admitted into the Caledonia, MN Hall of fame, played baseball in the Air Force and was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals prior to breaking his collar bone. The game remained a lifelong companion—whether he was watching a matchup, sharing stories from his playing days, or passing along his love of baseball to others through coaching. 

Golf became another of Duane’s great joys, offering him both challenge and peace. He treasured the early morning tee times, the camaraderie on the course, and the satisfaction of a well-played round. But nothing in the game meant more to him than the time he spent golfing with his son Craig. Those rounds—full of conversation, laughter, and friendly competition—were among the happiest moments of his life. To Duane, they weren’t just games; they were memories he held close. 

Duane built a life grounded in dedication—to his work, to his community, and above all to the people he loved. He attended most of his children’s activities. This is pretty phenomenal considering his children participated in many sports, band and dance classes. Duane was one of the founders of the Optimist club for Smoky Hill High School. He was the one others turned to for steady guidance, practical wisdom, and a laugh that could brighten even the hardest day. Duane was everyone’s father.

His early career was dedicated to his work for Great West Life Assurance company that enabled his family to live in much of the United States before settling in Colorado. His late career Duane worked at Meadow Hills golf course until the age of 85. 

He is survived by daughter Myra, son Craig and daughter in law Melody who will forever carry his stories, his humor, and the lessons he taught by example. 

A celebration of Duane’s life will be held on May 14th with mass at Risen Christ Catholic Church at 10:00 am followed by a reception at the church. Graveside service will be at Fort Logan at 1:30pm. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the man who touched so many lives. Duane’s life was a testament to the beauty of simple joys—family, friendship, a good game, and a day spent outdoors. Though he will be deeply missed, the love he gave and the example he set will continue to live on in all who knew him.