Duane Stahl

Duane Stahl, 76, of Tea and formerly of Freeman passed away at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls on January 1st. Memorial Services will be held at 11 am on Monday, January 12th at Bethany Mennonite Church of Freeman. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 12th, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at the church prior to the Memorial Service.

Link to view Memorial Service:  https://www.youtube.com/live/6_6VLjb8Vok

Celebrating the Life of Duane Lee Stahl

Duane Lee Stahl, a man of quiet strength and boundless generosity, was born on July 8, 1949, in Freeman, South Dakota, to Sarah (Kleinsasser) and Eli Stahl. On January 1, 2026, at the age of 76, Duane peacefully completed his earthly journey, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and cherished memories.

Growing up on a farm west of Freeman with his three siblings, Duane learned the value of perseverance and integrity—qualities that shaped his entire life. After graduating from Freeman Academy in 1967, he married his lifelong partner and best friend, Julianne Weiland, on March 29, 1968. Together, they shared 57 beautiful years of marriage, raising two daughters and building a home filled with laughter, faith, and family.

Duane’s professional life reflected his dedication and versatility. He began his career with NorthWestern Public Service in 1969, serving faithfully for 35 years before retiring in 2004. Never one to sit still, Duane also owned and operated Stahl Backhoe and Trenching for two decades. Even after retirement, he continued to share his skills—working with Koerner Construction, the City of Freeman, and teaching the Power Lineman program at Mitchell Technical Institute. Later, he returned to NorthWestern Public Service in DeSmet as Town Superintendent until his second retirement in 2016. Duane then worked part-time at Maynard’s Food Center in DeSmet. His commitment to community extended beyond work; Duane volunteered 24 years with the Freeman Fire Department and was active in the Freeman Jaycees, NAVHDA, and local snowmobile clubs. He was a member of Bethany Mennonite Church.

Duane’s heart belonged to the outdoors. Pheasant hunting was his greatest passion, and he treasured every moment in nature. He also loved fishing, going to the car races, snowmobiling, camping, grilling, and raising hunting dogs. Duane was a man of few words but endless kindness—patient, generous, and deeply devoted to his family and friends. His presence was a steady source of comfort and joy, and his memory will forever be a blessing.

Those who will continue to honor Duane’s life include his beloved wife, Julianne of Tea, SD; daughters Laurie (Bret) Moeller of Sioux Falls, SD, and Amy Stahl of Freeman, SD; four grandchildren and their families: Alexa (Kyle) Beauchamp and great-granddaughter Eleanore of Rapid City, SD; Cole (Karina) Waldhauser of Pasadena, CA; Mitchell (Jalyn) Moeller and great-grandson Pierce of Sturgis, SD; and Levi (Nicole) Waldhauser and great-grandson Bennett of White Bear Lake, MN. He also leaves behind bonus grandchildren Reed and Reagan Rus and Maria Baker of Mt. Vernon, SD; his sister Judy (Loren) Kaufman; brothers Tom Stahl and Oren (Patti) Stahl, all of Freeman, SD; and many nieces and nephews. Duane was preceded in death by his parents, Eli and Sarah Stahl, and his parent in-laws, Kenneth and Ione Weiland.

Duane’s life was a testament to faith, family, and friendship. His love for the outdoors and his unwavering kindness touched everyone who knew him. Though he has left this world, his spirit will live on in the stories shared, the traditions continued, and the hearts he so deeply impacted.