Duane Sarkela

Duane Leslie Sarkela, 74, of Green Valley, Arizona, passed away April 1, 2017, at his son’s home in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He was under the care of Hospice of Eastern Idaho and his loving family. Duane was born September 9, 1942, in Ironwood, Michigan, to Leslie Sarkela and Irma (Koivula) Sarkela. He attended grade and high schools in Ironwood and was able to attend Michigan Tech University in Houghton, Michigan, graduating with a degree in engineering. In 1966, he married Christine Nikki Rakai. To this marriage was born two sons, Kenny and Steve. Duane was able to use his degree to work for several companies, Kohler, INL, and for 13 years in Irian Jaya, Indonesia, for Freeport Copper, which led to his interest in traveling. When Duane was able to retire, he and his bride traveled extensively around the world. He also spent his spare time helping and volunteering for different organizations around Green Valley, including the Lions Den and the Nogalas Mission. He was a member of the Green Valley Community Church. Duane is survived by his sons, Kenny (Christa) Sarkela and Steve Sarkela, both of Idaho Falls, Idaho; his brother, Richard (Arlene) Sarkela of Silver City, New Mexico, 6 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Christine Nikki (Rakai) Sarkela. A memorial will be held at a later date in Green Valley, Arizona, for family and friends.

Memorial Services at a Later Date in Green Valley, Arizona. He passed away