Dwayne passed away at home in The Villages, Florida, on May 5, 2020 surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by parents Gil and Harriet. He is survived by his wife of 61 years Deanna, son Douglas, daughter Diane (Kelli), sister Phyllis (Don), seven nephews and nieces, in-laws and countless friends.
Dad was born September 25, 1936 in Williston, North Dakota and spent his youth there. He enlisted in the Army in 1956 and proudly served his country for three years. He married the love of his life Deanna in 1959. Dad had a wonderful and fulfilling career in health care, specifically eye care. Starting as an orthoptist, he became a teacher and mentor to many who continue in the field today.
He is a past president of both the Opticians Association of America and Contact Lens Society of America. He had a 37-year career at Park Nicollet Clinic and retired as Senior Vice President of the retail division. He loved the work he did and cherished the enduring friendships formed with those he met along the way. He was a great dad who spent countless weekends with us camping, boating, playing ball and coaching, usually with our many friends in tow. We will miss his sense of humor and his wonderful ability to tell stories and jokes. He was indeed the “Life of the Party”.
After retirement in 2000, Mom and Dad were able to spend 20 years together enjoying summers on the north shore of Lake Superior and winters in Florida. They enjoyed the fellowship of friends and family in their retirement and loved playing host to their many visitors. Before retirement they were members of Westwood Lutheran Church in Minneapolis where they cultivated their deep faith in The Lord. A service and celebration of life will take place in Minneapolis when circumstances allow us to gather together. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Trinity Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 188 Hovland, Minnesota, 55606, or the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, 3675 Arboretum Dr., Chaska, Minnesota, 55318.
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