Duane (Rocky) Charles Henry Rokala was born on February 17, 1937 to Henry and Elma (Tormanen) Rokala in Kingston Township, Minnesota. He grew up on a farm along the Crow River in the Kingston area. During his growing up years he worked on the family farm and could often be found swimming. He proudly served in the United States Army from February 20,1956 through April 10,1958. During his time in the military, he married B. Elaine Hale on February 22, 1958. Together they had 3 children. He worked several jobs over the years, including: being manager of Anderson Box Company, owned R and R Roofing, ServiceMaster and BDL Furniture store. He also enjoyed truck driving. He lived in the Dassel area through the majority of his life.
Duane enjoyed the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing. He also loved to travel and spending time with others. His faith in the Lord was very important to him as well as attending church. Everyone knew where “his spot” was at church. Duane was always ready and willing to help out anyone in need and lend a helping hand. He treasured time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was also very proud when he became a great-great grandpa just a few months ago. He will always be remembered by his big smile and infectious laugh, which was heard often.
Duane was survived by his three children: Randall Rokala of Cosmos, Minnesota, Marcella (husband Craig) Hagen of Mesa, Arizona, and Peggy (husband Michael) Kinzler of Glencoe, Minnesota. 10 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.
Duane was preceded in death by his father Henry Rokala, mother Elma Rokala, brother Russell Rokala, granddaughter Ashley Hagen and two great grandchildren.
A memorial service will take place on Wednesday, October 23 at 11 AM at Riverside Church in Hutchinson, MN. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 22, from 5-7 and continue 1 hour prior to services on Wednesday, all at Riverside Church (20924 St. Hwy. 7 West, Hutchinson, MN 55350)