Duane Dempsey Haagensen

Duane Dempsey Haagensen, loving father and husband, 84, passed away peacefully at his residence with family by his side on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Duane was born on May 18, 1940 to the late Bendick and Goldie (nee: Clute) Haagensen in Duluth, MN. Duane was united in marriage to the love of his life Diane Barbera on November 18, 1961 at Franksville United Methodist Church. Duane was born in Duluth, MN to Ben and Goldie Haagensen, one of 12 children amassed by the prolific couple. He loved all of them dearly and traveled with his wife and children on an annual vacation trek to reunite with his parents and siblings. This resulted in many raucous get togethers, where siblings tipped back a few and reveled in the memories of the infamous Haagensen clan's reputation for underage driving, racing cars and other mischief on the streets of Duluth. The 1950's and its automobiles left an indelible impression on the young Duane. Those who know him best see Duane as a collector of classic cars as well as, just cars. Eventually, Duane spread his wings, and along with his three buddies traveled to Racine, WI to seek well-paying employment at American Motors in Kenosha, which they succeeded in securing. In doing so, the friends spent time at the Kraut Festival in the small town of Franksville, where the 1st runner-up in the Kraut Queen contest, Diane Barbera, caught his eye. Second place was good enough for Dad in this instance, as they married a couple years later, and "manufactured" four children of their own (Todd, Russell, Brian and Cori). He was devoted to his wife and kids, and adored his grandkids, never one to withhold his abundantly verbalized "Love Youz." Duane spent 49+ years at American Motors/Chrysler Corporation, accumulating many friends along the way. He spent a good amount of his career in the Heat Treat department, where he notoriously survived a small eruption of a blast furnace that singed his face a bright red and removed his mustache and eyebrows in one fell swoop. Dad still managed to make it to the church for the family photo, and his tomato-red face is captured on film as evidence. He grew steadily more contemplative and insightful over the years. He also worked as an engine inspector for a number of years and was very proud of the quality Jeep engines that were produced. Dad was always a very generous man, as the many waitresses he tipped would surely attest. Sometimes generous to a fault, pushing the limits of his marital budget. Dad made sure that his kids had access to their own transportation, and never met a deal he didn't like. This resulted in an influx of "bar cars" that probably imperiled the safety of Duane's teenage children, but hey, we had a car! And we are all still in one piece, so there's that. Not only was Duane an avid Packers and Brewers fan, but he also cherished a good party, such as the holidays, the family reunions, as well as the timeless block parties of Fancher Road! He always maintained a refrigerated supply of Pabst Blue Ribbon and offered them up to anyone who might happen by for a visit. Dad was passionate that a cold PBR could remedy any disagreement and worked diligently for many years in that regard toward societal harmony. He felt that any conversation was amicable with a PBR! And to all those who have encountered Dad and provided services, may your memories of him forever be blessed with his resounding "GOOD JOB!!" Duane frequently enjoyed treating family at local restaurants, the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers, listening to oldies stations, attending live music and shows, traveling, classic cars, and ample time outdoors in the sun and fresh air. He loved unconditionally, was generous and supportive, grew his faith through prayer and surrendered his heart to God. Duane is survived by his wife of 63 years, Diane; children, Todd (special friend Darcy LaMeer) Haagensen, Russell (Fatima) Haagensen, Brian (Tammy) Haagensen, Cori (Josh Voisin) Haagensen; grandchildren, Angela (Katrisa) Haagensen, Katie Haagensen, Nichole Haagensen, Colin Haagensen, Alyssa (Joseph) Darby, Kara (Xavier Ornelas) Haagensen and Amy Haagensen; great grandchildren, James, Jack, Ethan, Shawn, Xavier Jr.; siblings, Robert Haagensen, Danny (Sandy) Haagensen, Renee Felver, Darlene Merritt; sisters-in-law, Debbie Haagensen, Elsie Haskell and brother-in-law, Mel (Mitzi) Barbera. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Duane was preceded in death by siblings, Richard Haagensen, Roy (Marylynn) Haagensen, Ronald (Linda) Haagensen, Donald (Karen) Haagensen, Gerald Haagensen, Dennis Haagensen and Ricky Haagensen; sister-in-law, Bernice Haagensen; brothers-in-law, Don Felver, Tom Merritt, Ronald Barbera and mother-in-law and father-in-law, Anthony and Thora Barbera. Services will be held at Faithbridge Church, 10402 Northwestern Ave, on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 11 a.m. There will be a visitation at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service. Duane will be laid to rest at West Lawn Memorial Park. The family would like to extend special thanks to Kathy Dunham, Aurora at Home Hospice, and Home Instead for the love and care. And to all those who have encountered Dad and provided services, may your memories of him forever be blessed with his resounding "GOOD JOB!!" To Dad/Grandpa, we love you....and to world peace!

Tributes

Duane Dempsey Haagensen

May 18, 1940 - March 5, 2025