Duane Willard Fredrickson passed away peacefully at home February 4, 2026 at the age of 95. As he said shortly before passing, “It was a good life.”

Duane was born to Bernard (Ben) and Gladys Fredrickson on November 28, 1930 in Valley City, North Dakota. He had one sister, Erma. He spent his early years on a farm. A few of his favorite memories were of herding cattle on horseback for 25 cents a day and going to school in winter on a horse drawn sleigh.

Duane and his family moved to the Vancouver area in 1940. Through his teen years, he enjoyed sports, cars and some Tom Foolery! He graduated from Fort Vancouver High School in 1949.

Duane enlisted in the US Navy immediately after graduation. He enjoyed being at sea and was proud he didn’t get seasick while crossing the Pacific as many of his fellow sailors did!

After returning home from active duty, Duane went to work at the Camas paper mill. He worked at the mill over 40 years, primarily in the Print Department, where he made many life long friends.

Duane married Margaret Charlston in 1954. They lived in the Camas-Washougal area for nearly 70 years. Duane and Margaret have one daughter, Carol. He always challenged Carol to do her best, especially in school.

Throughout his life, Duane enjoyed playing and watching all sports. Boating and water skiing were his favorite summer pastimes. He taught many friends and family to water ski. He was also an avid walker and bowler. Duane bowled in leagues up until he was 85.

Duane and Margaret square danced for many years and traveled extensively both in the US and abroad. Above all, Duane loved spending time with family and friends.

Duane and Margaret were active members of Zion Lutheran Church in Camas for many years and are currently members of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Washougal.

Duane’s greatest joy in his retirement years was spending time with his grandchildren, Ryan and Brooklyn. He was their biggest fan, attending all their athletic events from preschool soccer to varsity sports.

Another of his favorite activities in retirement was the Friday lunch with his mill friends. The group has continued to meet regularly for over 30 years. Duane celebrated his 95th birthday with these special friends last November.

Duane will be remembered a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and a faithful friend to so many. He was always willing to help anyone in need and cheered for the “underdog.” He had great sense of humor and loved to tease—many of his family and friends were given unique nicknames not to be forgotten!

Duane is survived by his wife of 71 years, Margaret, his daughter Carol Bausch (Kirk), grandson Ryan Bausch (Hannah) and granddaughter Brooklyn Kassebaum (Ethan). He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Gladys and his sister Erma.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Matthew Lutheran Church or to Salvation Army in memory of Duane.