Duane Edward Schulze

Duane Edward Schulze, Holcombe, passed away peacefully, Saturday,Oct.17,2026,after along battle with COPD.

Duane was born July 16, 1951, to Louis and Caroline (Anders) Schulze.

He grew up on the family farm, in the Town of Ruby, and graduated from Holcombe High School.

Duane was united in marriage, March 3, 1973, to Daisy Holten.

Music was a lifelong passion for Duane. He began playing in polka bands as a teenager and continued sharing his love of music throughout his life. Over the years, he played with the Derbytown Boys, Toe Teasers, Guys and Gals, Northstar Express, Cynor Classics and many others.

He especially loved Polish-style music, and the friendships and memories that came with performing.

Duane was a hard-working man, who was a log truck driver for the majority of his life and also worked for the Holcombe Sanitary District. He served on the Ruby Town Board and later, on the Holcombe Town Board.

He was always willing to lend a hand and was known for his strong work ethic.

In his free time, Duane enjoyed riding his bike, reloading bullets and playing cards. He cherished time spent with family and friends.

He is survived by his two sons – Benjamin (Mary) and Richard; one daughter – Rebecca; three grandsons – Gregory, Daniel and Matthew; one brother – Donald (Rizza); and many nieces; nephews; relatives and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents – Louis and Caroline Schulze; his brother – Kenneth Schulze; his sister – Dorothy Schulze; and his nephew – James “Jim” Schulze.

A special thank you, to the family, friends and to Hope Hospice, for all of their help and support, throughout his illness.

Duane will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Visitation is from 1-3 p.m., followed by a 3 p.m. prayer service, Wednesday, Oct. 28, at Borton-Leiser Funeral Home in Cornell.

Online condolences may be expressed, at www.bortonleiserfuneralhome.com.