Gerald O. Duerst, 83, of Durand, IL, died at 5:48 p.m., Saturday, November 12, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family. Gerald was born November 18, 1938, in New Glarus, WI, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert H. and Hilda (Legler) Duerst.

He graduated from New Glarus High School, class of 1957. Gerald enlisted in U.S. Army Reserves in 1956, and the entered into the U.S. Army serving until 1963. Gerald married Lucy A. Duffy in Daleyville, WI, on May 27, 1961. He was employed by Ingersoll Milling Machine for 39 years, retiring in 1997. Member of Trinity Lutheran Church; Laona Township Trustee for 20 years; President of the Board of Directors of Winnebago County Fire Protection District #1; Durand Ditch Riders Snow Club; Durand American Legion Post #676 for 50 years, having served as Post Commander.

Family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sanctuary Hospice for all their tender loving care given to Gerald.

Survivors include wife, Lucy; daughters, Heidi (Jeff) Swanson, Dawn (Sid) Hendon and Darrin (Dawn) Duerst; grandchildren, Kyle (Kayley) Swanson, Briana Swanson, Collin Palmer, Reece Palmer, Alyssa Duerst and Evan Duerst; brother, Lloyd (Karen) Duerst; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his parents; sister, Phyllis Foster; brother, Nathan Duerst.

A memorial ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, December 3, 2022, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 15585 Durand Road, Durand, IL, with Rev. Eric Lemonholm officiating. Burial will be in South Rock Run Cemetery. A memorial visitation be held at the church from 9:00 a.m., until time of ceremony.