Duane Joseph Schinn

     Duane Joseph Schinn age 90 of Lutsen, MN passed away peacefully with family by his side on December 13, 2024. He was born in West Duluth, MN on October 25, 1934 to parents, Joseph Schinn and Bernhild Collander. Duane enlisted in the United States Navy when he was just 16 years old. He served in Korea and Vietnam where he received two Purple Hearts and a Silver Star for his courage and injuries sustained in combat. He retired as a BMCM Master Chief Petty Officer (E9) after 24 years of honorable service in the Navy.

     He married the love of his life, Gloria Turner on December 2, 1954. They raised 5 beautiful children together, eventually settling in Lutsen, MN. Duane was a man of many talents. He enjoyed gardening, golfing, bowling, investing, fishing, skiing and working with his hands. He was a member of many organizations including the Military Order of the Purple Heart, American Legion, Disabled Veterans, Free Masons, and VFW. He was the lead visionary and instrumental in the reorganization and rebuilding of the Lutsen Fire Department and Fire Hall, where he served as a volunteer for over 20 years. 

     He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gerald, Dale and Steven; sisters, Lorayne Rannetsberger and Kathleen Kimball; and son, Joseph Schinn. Duane is survived by his wife of 70 years, Gloria Schinn; children, Karen Kadoun, Douglas (Lynn) Schinn, Robin (Keith) Knight, and Dr. Sandra (Joel) Schinn-Payment; 9 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandson; best friend, Michael (Lynn) Rose; faithful dog, Dewey; and many extended family and friends. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at 12:00 pm with a visitation beginning at 11:00 am at Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E Second Street, Duluth, MN. Interment at Lutsen Cemetery at a later date. Duane loved all animals so in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Animal Allies of Duluth or another no kill animal rescue.