Duane Thews, age 88, passed away Friday, October 31, 2025 at The Villa at Felician Village.Duane was born on June 1, 1937 in Waupaca County to the late Harvey and Myrtle Thews. He graduated with the class of 1954 from Weyauwega High School. He then furthered his education, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in 1958 and a master’s degree in 1965 from UW-Madison. He enlisted in the US Army Reserve in 1955. Duane was commissioned as 2nd Lt. in the US Army Reserve in 1958. From 1959-1968 he was active duty and active reserve. On November 27, 1958 he married the former Betty Rekitzke at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fremont Wisconsin. She preceded him in death on October 4, 2014. Over the years Duane worked as a secondary English and Spanish teacher in Burlington, and in 1961 moved to Manitowoc as the elementary and junior high school Spanish teacher, and in 1966 Duane accepted a job with UW-Eau Claire working as the methods instructor, supervisor of student teachers, and coordinator of Latin American exchange teachers employed throughout Wisconsin. In 1968 he returned to Manitowoc and worked for the Manitowoc public school system retiring in 1996. He was a life member of NEA and WEAC, Kiwanis Golden K, and Redeemer Lutheran Church. Duane enjoyed golf, traveling, and reading.
Duane is survived by his children: Pamela (David) Roehrig and John (Melissa) Thews; 5 grandchildren: Kristin (Chad) Van Eyck, David “DJ” Roehrig, Anthony, James, and Miranda; 3 great grandchildren: Elyse, Brielle, and Mason; one brother: Donald Thews; sister-in-law: Rita Thews; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends further survive. He is preceded in death by his wife: Betty Thews; parents: Harvey and Myrtle Thews; daughter-in-law: Julie (Johnston) Thews; brother: Evan Thews; and parents-in-law: Dale and Margaret Luedtke; one sister-in-law: Bonnie Thews.
A Memorial service will be held to celebrate Duane’s life on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 12:00 noon at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1712 Menasha Ave, with Rev. Jonathan Huehn officiating. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Friday, November 7th, at the church from 10:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 noon. Military honors will be accorded following the service by the Vietnam Veterans Chapter #731 of Manitowoc.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Pfeffer location, is assisting the family with arrangements.
