Furrer, Duane L.

Duane L. Furrer, age 87, passed away peacefully on Thursday January 22, 2026, at Southwest Health in Platteville. He was born on November 3, 1938, the son of Clifford and Eleanor (Bergum) Furrer.

Duane spent his senior year at Fennimore High School, where he graduated. During his time in high school, Duane was a remarkable athlete who excelled in every sport he played. Whether it was football, basketball, or baseball, he gave his all to every game. His talents gave him the opportunity to try out for the minor league with the Chicago Cubs. On October 18, 1958, Duane married his homecoming queen and high school sweetheart, Nellie Loy. They were married for 61 wonderful years before Nellie’s passing in 2020.  

In his younger years, Duane enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was an avid bowler and an excellent fast pitch softball player. He could often be found at Hickory Grove Golf course, where he served on the board of directors during the golf courses early development days. Duane loved the community of Fennimore and was an active member of the Lion’s Club, Investment Club, and the Jaycees. Duane worked for USPS for over 30 years before retiring as Postmaster. 

Duane was a devoted father, husband, and grandfather. He cherished each moment he spent with his grandchildren and built special relationships with each of them over the years. In the winter months, Duane and Nellie resided at Sun Lake Estates in Grand Island, FL for over 20 years. They built many friendships over the years and looked forward to their months there. 

Duane is survived by his children, Tom (Gina Trollop) Furrer and Sue Griffiths; grandchildren: Derek (Lauren) Furrer, Lindsay (Paul) Taber, Nick Furrer, and Michael (Kristin) Oellerich; great grandchildren: Treyton, Halle, Emrey, Calum, and Leila Furrer, Mason Oellerich, Kayahna and Jaxon Furrer, and Stella, Jayda, and Eliza Oellerich; step granddaughter, Paula Griffiths; and step great grandchildren: Michael, Joshua, Dylan, and Lucas Taber. He is further survived by his siblings: David (Barb) Furrer, Dean (Deanna) Furrer, and Jean Harter. 

Duane was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Nellie; son-in-law, Stan Griffiths; brothers: Delbert, Darold, and Don Furrer; sister, Janice Smith; and brother-in-law, Don Harter.

A Celebration of Life honoring both Duane and Nellie will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Friday January 30, 2026, at Hickory Grove Golf Course in Fennimore. Private family services will be held at the Larson Family Funeral Home in Fennimore. For online condolences, please visit: www.larsonfuneralhomes.com

The family would like to thank the staff at Park Place Assisted Living and Memory Care for their wonderful care of our Dad.

They would also like to thank Southwest Health in Platteville for allowing Dad to pass with dignity and comfort.