Duane Alvin Palmgren passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife and family, on Sept. 20, 2025.

Duane was born in Mount Vernon, Washington on Oct. 21, 1939 to parents Lloyd (Pete) and Violet (Pearl) Palmgren. He was raised in La Conner and graduated from La Conner High School with the Class of 1958. After graduation, Duane enlisted in the United States Navy and served aboard the USS Coral Sea (CV-43).

In 1961, Duane married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Nelson. After four years of service in the Navy, Duane and Sandra returned to La Conner to start a family. Duane worked for Dunlap Towing before becoming a foreman at the Texaco Refinery in Anacortes, where he remained until his retirement.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Duane could usually be found fishing “the slot” near Hope Island.

His happiest days were spent on the water. Known as an avid sport fisherman, he had quite the reputation for catching the big ones. In later years, he and his loyal Jack Russell Terrier, Nelson — the true captain of the boat and keeper of all sticks, the bigger the better — spent countless days fishing in Duane’s secret spots in the San Juan Islands, which he took with him to his grave.

Duane is survived by his wife, Sandra; their three children, Duane Kelly Palmgren, Kimberly Benson-Palmgren (Bonnie), and Heidi Palmgren; grandson Cody Palmgren; and great-grandchildren Harper and Luke Palmgren. He is also survived by his sisters Jackie Gardner, Mary Center and Beth (Joe) Liston.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved Jack Russell, Nelson, who was named after Duane’s brother-in-law and best friend, Larry Nelson.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of the Northwest for their compassionate care and service.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life at 2 p.m. Nov. 9 at the Hope Island Beach Club (16846 Chilberg Ave. in La Conner, Washington).