Duane R. Bleich

Sergeant First Class Duane R. Bleich, 50, passed away at his home August 27, 2020.  He was born November 21, 1969 to Robert August & Connie Marie (Meyer) Bleich in Fairbury.

Duane served 23 years of service in the Armed Forces of the United States, including 16 years in the Army National Guard.  He was a certified instructor for the United States Army Armor School.  Duane was deployed overseas 2 times.  He earned a Meritorious Service Medal among many others.  He worked overseas for Kellogg Brown & Root.

On August 12, 2005 he was united in marriage to Carrie Gross Bleich.

He is survived by his parents Robert & Connie Bleich, stepson John Wyatt Schmit, sisters Denise Pahl & Jennifer (Kevin)  Scowder,  nephews Caleb (Shannon) Pahl, Conner (Cara Gross) Pahl, nieces Taylor & Payton Wagoner, great nephews and niece Asher, Harper & Myer Pahl, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Preceding him in death is wife Carrie Bleich, stepson Dylan Lang, and Grandparents Ben & Marie Meyer & Pete & Emma Bleich.

Services will be Friday, October 16, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Fairbury. Military rites by Fairbury VFW.  In lieu of flowers, memorials will be given to Grace Lutheran Church and Wounded Warrior Project. Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.