John M. Duren

John Michael Duren, of LaValle, finished his earthly journey and returned to his eternal home on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, after a long, courageous battle with ALS.

John entered this earthly realm on March 11, 1950, the fourth of five children of Robert Duren and Connie (Thornton) Duren Giacalone of Cazenovia, Wisconsin.

John attended St. Anthony’s grade school, Weston High School, the University of Wisconsin and was most proud of the nursing degree he received from MATC in 1986 where he graduated “summa cum laude”.

John had a love for music, loved to travel and did a lot of cross country hitchhiking in his younger days. He bought his first motorcycle at the age of 15 and always enjoyed riding and having the wind in his face. This continued with his passion for sailing. He loved the freedom he felt when sailing on the water. Sailing brought him great joy and he sailed as often as he could.

John was a down to earth type of guy. He saw the beauty in all things of nature and loved bringing that to those who were unable to see it for themselves. He was a fabulous storyteller, loved reminiscing and had an infectious laugh. He loved spending time with family and playing with his grandchildren. His broad smile and robust laugh will be sorely missed.

John is survived by his beloved, Patti (Strum); his son, Anthony Duren; the children of his heart, Adreanne Bailey, Heidi and Chris Allen, Brandon and Kim Kribbs; his grandchildren, Anabell Kribbs, Savannah Allen, Evan Kribbs and Xaiden Duren; his mother, Connie Duren Giacalone; his brothers and their wives, Rich and Carol, Tom and Marion, Frank and Debbie; his brother-in-law, Ed Schmidt; his aunt Joanne Duren; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

John is now reunited with all those who have gone before him, especially, his father, Robert Duren, his sister, Judy Schmidt, and stepfather, Tony Giacalone.

John’s light and spirit will live on in all the lives he has touched. The Senior Life Center and Agrace Hospice gave John the best care he could have received during his last months. We are forever grateful.

The family invites you to join them and share your memories of John in a Celebration of Life that will be held on Sunday, January 13, 2019 from 1-5 P.M. at the Fusch Community Center, 2090 Ridgeview Drive, Reedsburg, WI. A tribute to his life will start at 1:00 P.M. with fellowship, and light refreshments to follow.

Memorials can be made to the Senior Life Center, Reedsburg WI, or Agrace Hospice, Fitchburg, WI.

The Farber Funeral Home, Reedsburg, is assisting the family with the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John M. Duren, please visit our floral store.