Duane Foster, 81, of Ada, MN, died Monday, July 26, 2010, in his home under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Duane Leon Foster was born on November 17, 1928, in Thief River Falls, MN, to Lester and Della (Thorstad) Foster. He moved with his family to Lockhart, MN, in 1936. He graduated from Ada High School. After school he began farming and farmed for over 40 years in Lockhart Township, in Norman County. Duane was united in marriage to Clarice Wermager in 1947. To this union, two daughters were born. He married Mary Jennings in 1985. Duane retired from farming in 1987, drove bus for the Norman County DAC, and worked as a summer employee for the Norman County Highway Department mowing ditches near Gary, MN. Duane was united in marriage to Bea Benson in 1993, in Ada.

Duane especially enjoyed fishing with his family and friends, whether or not he caught "The Big One." His extensive array of rods and reels and an overflowing tackle box kept it interesting. There was nothing better than a day at the lake. Since Duane loved to eat and try new foods, he expanded his culinary skills watching the Food Network and experimenting with recipes and ingredients. Cookies made with butter and hearty soups were two specialties enjoyed by his family as Duane became an excellent cook and baker. Animals, especially dogs, always played an important role in his life. He truly believed dogs were man's best friend. Duane's love of farming stayed with him even after retirement as he mowed county ditches, raised vegetables, and cut his grass with his John Deere mower. He never lost his strong work ethic. Duane's devout faith, love of family, and appreciation of friends sustained him throughout his life. Having a big heart and a generous nature, he saw the best in people. He could cheer up anyone with his hearty laugh and friendly manner. Duane touched many people with his unselfish spirit.

Duane is survived by his wife, Bea, Ada, MN, two daughters, Robin (Jay) McNamar, Elbow Lake, MN, Nancy Foster, Lincoln, NE, two step-sons, Bruce (Dawn) Benson, West Fargo, ND, Brian (Jill) Benson, West Fargo, ND, two granddaughters, Andrea (Chris) Loe, Las Vegas, Jaime (Tyrone) Canaday, Brooklyn, NY, six step-grandchildren, Kristopher (Nicole) Benson, Gretta (Chad) Johnson, Marni Benson, and Bennett Benson, all of West Fargo, Gretchen Wagendorf, Columbus, OH, and Greta Wagendorf, Fargo, four great grandchildren, Zian Loe, Mylee Loe, Haneulee Canaday, Mina Canaday, two step-great grandchildren, Aiden Benson, Chase Johnson, two brothers, John (Marie) Foster, Roswell, NM, and Eldon (Geraldine) Foster, Ely, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to thank MeritCare (Sanford) and Bridges Hospitals, and Hospice of the Red River Valley for their kindness and compassionate care. Memorials may be designated to the Salvation Army, Hospice of the Red River Valley, or Grace Lutheran Church.

Memorial Service: 11:00AM Monday, August 2, 2010, at Grace Lutheran Church, Ada.

Visitation: Sunday from 5-7PM, with a 6:30 prayer service at Fredrikson Funeral Home, Ada, Minnesota.

Burial: Ada Municipal Cemetery.

Arrangements with Fredrikson Funeral Home
Ada, Minnesota (218-784-4600)