Duane E. Simpson, 82, of Bismarck, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026 following complications from Parkinson’s disease. A wonderful father, grandfather, brother, and friend, he will be missed by all who knew him.

Duane was born on October 26, 1943, in Williston, ND to James and Ragna Simpson. He grew up a on his family farm in Tioga, ND with his younger sister, Diane Skarphol. Duane had a quick wit and a way with words that endeared him to many. His big personality and warmth made an impression on the people he met.

He graduated from Tioga High School in 1962 and Brown Institute of Broadcasting in Minneapolis in 1964. In his early career, he worked in radio and television in various capacities; on-air personality, sales as well as management in Williston, Tioga and Sidney, MT.

In 1978, Duane was given the opportunity to own a home improvement business, buying Western Builders Siding and Windows, which he operated with his brother-in-law, Rik Ostert. The successs of his home improvement business allowed him to pursue his dream of owning his own radio station. February 28, 1985, KDSR FM 101 went on the air and it continues to operate today.

Despite Duane’s entrepreneurial drive and love of the radio business, his true passion was his family. One of his favorite and most rewarding roles in life was being grandfather to his two granddaughters, Kyra and Maia. He loved spending time around them and was so proud of the young women they became.

Duane is survived by his children, Brett Simpson, Richland, WA, and Tara Fink (John), Westlake Hills, TX; and their mother, Dianna Bassett; grandchildren, Kyra Kelly (Mack) of Austin, TX; and Maia Fink, Seoul, South Korea; his sister, Diane Skarpohl (Bob), Tioga, ND; and nieces, nephews, and many friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ragna. A memorial service and internment will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, at Remembrance Gardens in Austin, TX. Because Duane was a dog-lover, In lieu of flowers, a gift to your local Humane Society or Animal Shelter is requested.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Edgewood Village in Bismarck, ND for their compassionate and loving care during his final days.

Additionally, there will be a remembrance service for Duane at the First Lutheran Church in Tioga, ND on August 15, at 11:00 am