Duane (Delightful Duane) Eugene Wenzel went home to be with the Lord on February 9 ^th , 2018.  He was born May 17 ^th , 1940 at Deaconess Hospital in Freeport, IL to Edwin and Jean Wenzel.

He grew up in the Lena Area and was a farmer by the age of 16.  Duane married Sherry (Mills) on July 10 ^th ,1971.  He continued as a farmer until age 30.  After moving to Freeport, Duane started a Handyman business from 1980 – 1987.  In 1987, Wenzel's Painting was opened.  He continued to paint and operate the business until his passing.

Duane was a passionate servant.  Over his lifetime he was active in 4H, Stephenson County Pork Producers, Pretzel City USA, and Gideons International.  He was also an elder at Faith Center Church in Freeport.  One of his proudest achievements was creating the iconic "Hog House" at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds.

He was a big proponent of Gideons International.  Through this organization, he actively worked towards the completion of the Lord Jesus' Great Commission: which is to spread to the Gospel of Jesus to the entire world.  Gideons International prints bibles in over 95 languages and distributes them to over 200 countries.

Duane is survived by his wife of 46 years, Sherry Wenzel, 4 children and 4 grandchildren.  Scott & Jill Wenzel and their children Brandon & Brittany; Jeff & Lindsay Wenzel and their children Deacon & Natalie; Tim & Leslie Wenzel and Daniel and Kristin Wenzel. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The visitation will be held on February 14 ^th from 4-7 at Crossroads Community Church in Freeport, IL.  The funeral will also be held at Crossroads on February 15 ^th at 11am, with a viewing at 10 am.