Duane was born on January 24, 1950 in West Point, NE, the son of Harlan and Bernice (Test) Kratke.  He attended Pender High School, graduating in 1968.  After attending college in Milford, NE, Duane joined the United States Army in 1970.  He served in Germany as a Military Policeman until being honorably discharged in 1972.  On February 24, 1973, he was united in marriage to Burdette Daberkow at Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Beemer, NE.  To this union four children were born; Anjanette, Anthony, Audrey and Ashley.  As a young man, Duane was listed in the Outstanding Young Men of America.  After farming, he worked at Blue Ox in Pender for 29 years.  Duane was a lifelong and an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, serving on the cemetery board, elder and other church offices.  He was also proud to serve on the color guard of the Pender American Legion, John Rooney Post #55.  Duane enjoyed the music of the 1960’s and classic country, was kind hearted and quick witted, liked playing cards and visiting.  He also was a member of the Bancroft Saddle Club and Lutheran Layman’s League.  Duane enjoyed riding horses, woodworking, traveling and working outdoors on the Kratke Homestead.  Most of all, Duane loved being around his family.  His wife, children and grandchildren brought him great joy.