Duane Roy Black

May 15, 1948 ~ April 22, 2021

Duane Roy Black was born May 15, 1948 in Monticello to Melvin Aldro Black and Melva Hurst Black.

He was the youngest of four children with two older sisters and one older brother who preceded him in death.

He enjoyed growing up in Blanding. Early in life he developed a strong work ethic that was exemplified by his father. Duane was known for being quiet, dependable, and steadfast.

After graduating from San Juan High, he served a proselyting mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1967-1969 in the Central States Mission.

Upon returning, he attended Utah Technical College where he obtained a certificate in Diesel Mechanic Training. This enabled him to become a diesel truck mechanic which would be his primary profession for over 30 years.

He married his sweetheart, Denise Yvonne Dunnavan, for time and eternity on June 1, 1972 in the Utah Provo Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They were looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary next year.

Acquiring a position with Wyoming Machinery relocated the newlyweds to Casper, WY. Here they had their first child, Benjamin Duane.

Six months later, they relocated once again to Rockford, IL to be nearer to Denise’s family. Here they had three more children, Suzanne Yvonne, Scott Delois, and Kathryn Vilate. Duane and Denise lived most of their married lives in Rockford where they raised their four children.

Almost every summer, Duane would bring his family to Blanding for vacation. Many enduring memories were made on these annual excursions that will be cherished by those who experienced them.

Duane was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served faithfully in many callings.

He loved the land and people of Blanding. He was an avid sportsman and enjoyed spending much of his free time with his family and friends in the great outdoors of southeastern Utah.

Duane was especially happy to help local farmers control their prairie dog populations.
His highest priority was that of supporting and loving his family.

Duane passed away in the early morning of April 22, 2021 at the age of 72. He was able to do so as he wished, at home in the house his dad built, was raised in, and he and Denise retired to. He had a deep love for his parents and is now able to joyfully reunite with them and his older brother, Melvin Grant.

He will continue to be loved by his beloved wife Denise, son Benjamin (Pamela), daughter Suzanne, son Scott (Mary), daughter Kathryn (Jonathan), and six grandchildren.

He is survived by sisters Merle (Bill) Richardson and Shirley (Don) Gunderson, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will take place at the North Blanding Chapel at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 27 with an internment and burial at the Blanding City Cemetery immediately following.

San Juan Record

49 South Main St
PO Box 879
Monticello, UT 84535

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