Gerald R. Duwe

Gerald Ralph Duwe Aged 92 passed away peacefully at home on June 24, 2026, in

Ukiah, CA. He was born October 16, 1933 in Minnesota. Gerald lived a full life marked

by dedication to his family and a passion for craftsmanship.

Gerald joined the Army in March 1953, serving his country until February 1956. After

his military service, he briefly drove for Bartlett Oil before joining John Wagner

Construction. His passion and talent for carpentry led him to venture out on his own,

acquiring his contractor’s license. He continued in this line of work for over 65 years.

In November of 1953, Gerald married Patricia L. McConnell (soon to be Patricia

Duwe!), the love of his life. Together they raised four children and celebrated over 70

years of marriage until her passing in April of 2024. Gerald was a devoted husband and

a loving father, grandfather, and uncle. His family was his pride and joy, and he reveled

in their accomplishments.

A skilled craftsman, Gerald had a profound love for restoring old cars, a hobby that

occupied much of his time. His collection currently includes a 1916 Model T Roadster, a

1946 CJ2A flat fender jeep, a 1949 Plymouth Special Deluxe Coupe (which he drove

home brand new from the dealership and in which he had his first date with Patricia).

He also has a beautifully restored 1964 convertible Thunderbird. When not immersed in

his carpentry work, he could often be found tinkering in his garage or seeking out his

next project car.

Gerald also enjoyed square dancing and social gatherings with friends, which brought

much joy into his life. He was a proud member of the Sheriff’s Four Wheel Drive Search

and Rescue and used that same jeep at the Ukiah Racetrack every Friday night for

years, where he could be found pushing cars or sweeping the track. He was a familiar

and cherished face at many community events.

He is survived by his children: daughter, Raelene Duwe Tilley, and her husband,

John Tilley Jr., son, Ron Duwe, and his wife, Kim Hempsmyer Duwe; and son,

Robert Duwe. Gerald was a proud grandfather to Bryan Boele, JT Duwe (spouse

Monica), Ron C. Duwe, Katie Duwe-Kaeser (spouse Tyler), David Duwe, Alyssa

Tilley, and Emily Tilley, and great-grandfather to six.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, George and Anne Elizabeth Duwe, his

wife, Patricia L Duwe, and his oldest daughter, Renee Duwe Boele.

A Celebration of life for Gerald and Patricia will be held from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on

October 17, 2026, at the Elks Lodge, 1200 Hastings Rd., Ukiah, CA. In lieu of

flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice honoring

Gerald’s generous spirit.