Duane C. Byrd

 

1935-2023

Duane C. Byrd, 87, of Medford, died Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023 at Aspirus Care & Rehab in Medford while under the care of Hope Hospice. A celebration of life will be held starting at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023 at the Ice Age Pavilion in Rib Lake. Duane was born Oct. 30, 1935 in Wausau to Gertrude (Bauman) and Earl Bird. He was raised by Arthur and Ella Marquardt. He built his life in Rib Lake and on May 21, 1960 married the love of his life, Phyllis Schult. Duane was employed by Linquist Motors and in later years became a self-employed logger. He loved logging, hunting, and gardening. He also enjoyed the many friendships he made over the years. One of his favorite activities was helping out with the area hunting shacks. He looked forward to hunting season each year and catching up with everyone who returned to the area to hunt and visit. Duane served two terms as supervisor for the town of Corning; and was a member of the Interwald Snowmobile Club. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis (Schult) Byrd of Medford; children, Roger (Debbie), Carl (Ann Weymouth), Mark Byrd; grandchildren, Steven Byrd, Gregory (April) Byrd, Lindsey (Tyler) Krause, Emily Byrd, Wesley Byrd, and Wyatt Mallien; step-grandchildren, Dustin (Heather) Schmudlach, and Turner Ryan; great-grandchildren, Ellie Mallien, Tanner and Landon Krause; step-great-grandchildren, Breanna and Lila Schmudlach; in-laws, Willie (Karen) Schult, Ruth (Donnie) Klienschmidt, Jim (Diane) Schult, Paulette Schult, and their children. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law, LaVerne Schult, John Schult; sister-in-law, Ruth “Rudy” Schult; and grandson, Michael Byrd. The family would like to thank Country Gardens in Medford, Aspirus Care and Rehab., and Hope Hospice for the wonderful care Duane received. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.

Paid Obituary 142833