W. Duane Schmidt passed away March 8.

Duane was born Feb. 13, 1942,  at the Harney County Hospital in Burns. He was the first of four children of Frank and Rose Schmidt, which included Sandee, Jerry, and Frank, all of whom grew up on the family ranch west of Potter Swamp Lane. Duane was an excellent student who was very active in the high school band. He often played in a small dance ensemble, performing at the Elks Club, Grange Hall, and in Diamond and Drewsey. His interest in music and performing continued throughout his life. He was a part of the Mendelssohn Chorale group in Utah up to the time of his passing. His family roots in Harney County date back to his maternal great-grandparents, Samuel and Willamina King, who homesteaded the 1,000 Springs Ranch north of Burns in 1884. His grandparents, B. Franklin and Catherine King, continued with the ranch for many decades and built multiple houses and properties in Hines.

Duane attended Oregon State University (OSU) as a math major after graduating from Burns Union High School.

After attending OSU for three years, he made the remarkable decision to seek to further his education by leaving the U.S., departing from New York City with $50 and boat passage to Europe, where he stayed for two and a half years, paying his way with various jobs, and visiting 13 countries, including a visit to East Berlin.

Shortly after his return,  Duane married Marion Austin in 1963 in the LDS Church in Burns, and shortly thereafter, moved to Orem, Utah, where they raised their four children, Jerry, Jon, Jamie, and Jannah.

Duane was an outgoing and friendly person with a quick-witted sense of humor, and a kind heart, especially for those who were struggling. He spent many years working with troubled youth, visiting the sick, and always being there for family members in their moments of need. His love for music led him to become the director of the Mendelssohn Choir for many years. At a young age, he helped his family establish the “King Family Association,” which, to this day, is still organizing a biyearly family reunion. He became an entrepreneur in Utah and operated his own business for most of his life.

Duane is survived by his wife, Pat, of American Fork, Utah; four children; four stepchildren; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His staunch faith in God, as well as dedication to the service of others, helped earn him a position of high priest in the LDS Church. We are both honored and proud to have had such a kind soul as our brother, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.