Madison - Duane Albert Hunter, age 84, of Madison, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 11, 2026. He was born on October 10, 1941, in Danbury, Wis., the son of Walter and Alice (Panser) Hunter.

Duane graduated from Durand High School in 1959. He went on to attend the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science, graduating in 1963, and also pursued studies in social work and psychology at UW-Eau Claire. Duane built a long and dedicated career as a mortician at the UW-Madison School of Medicine, where he worked until his retirement in 2009.

While working at UW Hospitals, Duane met his wife, Mary (Tiedeman) Hunter, who also worked at the hospital. The two were married on May 26, 1979, and went on to welcome two daughters. They made their home in Madison, where they built their family home in 1983 and spent many happy years together.

Duane was a devoted Wisconsin sports fan, proudly cheering on the Badgers in basketball, football, and hockey as a longtime season ticket holder. He was a supporter of the Packers and Brewers and could also be counted on to text family during the games with his spirited opinions.

He was an active member of Masonic Lodge No. 5 and the Scottish Rite beginning in the early 1980s. He was a member of the Zor Shrine Concert Band, where he played drums in many summer parades, often bringing his daughters along to enjoy the experience. Duane had a love for golf, playing in a weekly league for many years and daily visits to the driving range. A highlight of his golfing life came on July 29, 1965, when he scored a hole-in-one on the seventh hole at Durand Golf Course.

Duane is survived by his wife, Mary; daughters, Heidi (John) Howery and Laura (Lenny) Grow; brother, Michael (Cherie); sisters, Karen and Carol; grandchildren, Claire, Ryan and Dominic; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Lyle (Dawn), Ronald (Diane) and Gerald.

Duane was a devoted husband, father, and friend who brought laughter to those around him and was a wonderful provider for his family.

The family wishes to thank UW Home Health, Oakwood Village and Bristol Hospice for their compassion and care over the last five months.

A Masonic service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Monday, April 20, 2026, followed by a funeral service, with the Rev. John Berg presiding. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Duane Albert Hunter

October 10, 1941 - April 11, 2026

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