Duane Horace Oswald

Duane Horace Oswald, 91, of Idaho Falls, peacefully returned to his Heavenly Father on Saturday, May 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family in the comfort of his home. He was under the attentive care of Brio Hospice, and his passing marked the close of a life devoted to faith, family, learning, and service.

Duane was born on October 8, 1933, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Philip Fredrick Oswald and Lucille Andrus Oswald. He was raised in the rural communities of Ammon, Coltman, and Osgood, where he developed his enduring values of hard work, humility, and compassion. A proud graduate of Central Idaho Falls High School in 1951, Duane’s early years were marked by curiosity and a passion for science.

He pursued higher education at Ricks College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree with a dual major in Chemistry and Bacteriology. Duane continued his professional training at the Idaho Falls Hospital School of Technology and Laboratory Science, earning certification with the American Society of Medical Technologists in 1956. His dedication to excellence in healthcare later led him to complete training in Nuclear Medicine Quality Assurance in 1977, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to innovation and precision.

On March 17, 1955, Duane married the love of his life, Carol McLean, in a union that spanned 67 beautiful years. Together, they built a home full of warmth, faith, laughter, and enduring love. Carol preceded him in death on December 15, 2022, and not a day passed without Duane missing her dearly.

Duane was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he served faithfully in many capacities, including one of his most cherished callings, as Bishop. He found great joy in ministering to others and was always eager to lift those in need, guided by his deep testimony of the gospel and love for his Savior, Jesus Christ.

A man of service beyond the church, Duane also gave generously of his time to his community. He served as Chairman of the Bonneville School District Board, always advocating for education and the well-being of students. In recognition of his unwavering dedication, he was honored with the Sixth District Sports Athletics Award, commemorating an extraordinary 75 years of service.

Duane was a man of many interests and found joy in the simple things—casting a fishing line in still waters, he enjoyed playing on the baseball team, participating in gymnastics, and cheerleading in college, and perhaps most enthusiastically, refereeing all manner of sports. He was a familiar and respected figure in the local sports community, known for his fairness, enthusiasm, and ever-present whistle.

But above all, Duane was a family man. His greatest joy was spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a storyteller, a listener, a mentor, and a steady presence in the lives of those he loved. His sense of humor remained intact until the very end. Just hours before his passing, he thanked his son Lyndon for his love and care and managed to sing his favorite tune, “Cool Water.” In that moment, Lyndon joked, “Remember, Dad, you owe me a fishing trip to make up for all this dementia stuff.” Duane smiled and agreed—a precious memory his family will always hold close.

Duane is survived by his sons: Philip (Anne) Oswald of Lehi, Utah, Lyndon Oswald of Idaho Falls, and Darin Oswald of Boise, Idaho; his daughter: Jennifer (Drew) Kerner of Shelley, Idaho. He also leaves behind an enduring legacy in his 18 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren, each of whom carry a part of his strength and spirit.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol; his daughter, Kim Oswald; his parents, Philip and Lucille; his brother, Delmont Oswald; his sister, Phyllis Seyfert; and a cherished great-grandson, Logan Zachary Oswald.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., May 31, 2025, at the Kearney LDS Church, 1860 Kearney Street. A visitation will be held from 6-8:00 p.m., May 30, 2025, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls, and one hour prior to services at the church. The burial will be at 2:30 p.m., in the Valley View Cemetery, Rockland, Idaho. Those who wish to share memories or express condolences are invited to do so at www.coltrinmortuary.com.