DUANE O'BRIGHT
May 23, 1930 - June 12, 2023
Obituary
Duane E. O'Bright, age 93, passed away Monday, June 12, 2023.
Dad was born May 23, 1930, in Neenah, WI, the son of Edward and Ella (Rymer) O'Bright. He was united in marriage to Alice Drace in 1954 and they enjoyed 64 years together until her death. Family was very important to dad, and, in his own words, said they were blessed with six children: Alan (Jill) O'Bright, Laura (John) Hinkens, Lynn (Tom) Stadler, David (Sharon) O'Bright, Ann (Edward) Van Asten, Steven (Kathy) O'Bright. Dad also enjoyed spending time with his 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Dad is survived by a sister, Kathleen Oelrich, and was preceded in death by his wife, Alice, his brother, Jerome O'Bright, and sisters Rosemary Verkuilen and Marilyn Leedom.
Dad worked for a Menasha paper mill, retiring after 43 years of employment. He instilled in us the importance of working hard, expressing the values, “first we work then we play” and “be a leader.” These life lessons still impact our lives today. While dad didn't have hobbies, he had many talents revolving around designing, drafting and home construction, using his talents to build their garage and other projects.
These were a few of dad's favorite things: Living in Menasha, Friday night fish fries, Packers games, dancing and 3:30 pm (sharp!) cocktail hour, mixing brandy old fashions for himself and others. His least favorite thing: Squirrels, capturing them from their yard to take them elsewhere!
Dad was known for making the best deviled eggs and potato salad, and he was a dedicated life-long Spam consumer.
Dad was very proud serving his country for nine years with the Wisconsin National Guard 32nd Red Arrow Division, ending his service with a rank of Master Sergeant.
Duane's celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, June 16, 2023, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2330 E. Calumet St., Appleton. A visitation will be held at church from 9:00 am until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established. For those unable to attend, the service will be available to be viewed on the Westgor Funeral Home's Facebook Page, link: https://www.facebook.com/WestgorFuneralHomes.
The family thanks the staff and residents of The Gardens of Fountain Way Assisted Living for welcoming dad into their community. The family also wishes to acknowledge the loving care given by the staff of Oakridge Gardens and ThedaCare Hospice.
Master Sergeant O'Bright, your life's mission is complete; rest in peace.