Wienkes, Duane J. "Pinski"

Duane J. "Pinski" Wienkes, age 61 of Highland, passed away unexpectedly at home on January 14, 2024. Duane was born on January 31, 1962, in Dodgeville to Raymond and Margaret (Hasburgh) Wienkes. He grew up on the family farm in Highland and graduated from Highland High School in 1980. One of the coolest things he did in high school was play with the band at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, TX—incidentally, it was also one of the few times he ever left the state of Wisconsin.

After high school, Duane attended and graduated from the Madison School of Electronics, and attended UW-Platteville for engineering. After many years of employment at Amcor, Duane retired on January 4, 2024. 

In later years, Duane enjoyed spending his free time riding mopeds, cheering on his grandkids during sporting events, sending silly songs to his grandkids, sitting on his front porch enjoying his music, drink, and the nearby fire, and socializing with many friends and family members at Bootleggers. Duane was a grill master, especially when it came to chicken and pork loin—but only if it was on sale.  

Duane will be missed for many reasons, but especially for his willingness to help family and friends when they needed him.  

Duane is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dean; many other relatives; and his beloved dog, Tootsie.  

He is survived by his daughter, Brinn (Kevin) Heins; his grandchildren, Rilyn and Brogan Heins; his partner, Patti Wiest; his siblings, Mark (Janet) Wienkes, Marlene (Gary) Klein, Peg (Dave) McCarthy, Pat (Donna Levins) Wienkes, Dale (Becky) Wienkes; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.  

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Ss. Anthony & Philip Catholic Church, Highland from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM. A short memorial service will follow the visitation. The McGuire-Peterson-Houck Funeral Home, Highland, is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.houckfuneralhomes.com 

McGuire-Peterson-Houck 

Funeral Home 

Highland • 608-929-4815 

www.houckfuneralhomes.com