Duane William Cummins

Duane William Cummins, born on April 21, 1946, in Denver, Colorado, to Loren and Marcella (Rockstad) Cummins. A man of unparalleled determination and unwavering commitment, Duane's life was a testament to adventure, entrepreneurship, and an unyielding love for family and friends.

Graduating from Antelope Valley High School in 1964, Duane's path was one marked by his insatiable quest for new opportunities. He traversed various states including California, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Iowa and Missouri. He was always willing to move to places unknown.

He left an indelible mark wherever he ventured. His ventures included the ownership of multiple feed stores, feed lots, and two thriving livestock markets. Duane's involvement extended beyond business; he was a leader in his community, serving as President of the local Livestock Association for several years and dedicating himself to the cattle industry as a buyer and mentor to many.

Even in what many would term retirement, Duane's dedication to his trade persisted. His yard was always graced by the presence of cattle, a testament to his unwavering commitment and love for his work.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Duane's heart belonged to his family. His marriage to Ann Marie Frey in Reno, Nevada, on June 28, 1986, was a cornerstone of his life. He loved his children and grandchildren that he was blessed with, whether they were his kin or not, and he always went out of his way to spoil them. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons and grandchildren. Duane liked to catch the biggest fish, but you couldn’t get him to eat one! The time spent together created cherished memories that will endure through generations.

His family shares this: The sky spoke on Sunday, December 17th at 7:45 am to the heavy hearts that stood with hats in hand. “Your sadness pains me deeply and I know you’ll miss this man. You see, all his friends are up here and all his loved ones too. And heaven for a rancher is just what you might expect. It’s horses that need tunin’ up and heifers that need checked. It’s long rides with purpose and a road that shows the way, with a satisfying reason to smile every day. It’s the ranch he’s always dreamed of and never knew he’d find. And if you think about it, you can see it in your mind. Him leanin’ on the gate with his ol’ hat on his head, contentment set upon his face like fresh hay on his old truck bed. He’s gazing out at Paradise just like it was his home, up on that mountain now, he has no worries of his own. From his thrown he hollers “Annie Marie” one last time and calls in the cows for feeding like he has always done. So, I offer this small comfort to put your mind at rest, I only take the top hands cause my crews the very best. And I know it might seem selfish to friends and next of kin, but I needed one more cowboy and Duane fits right in. Now go out and eat a steak and get some licorice ice cream too. Think of him whistling one of his favorite tunes as we carry on with the lessons that he once taught. We’ll see you on the other side and make sure the gate is shut!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Loren and Marcella Cummins. Duane is survived by his loving wife, Ann Cummins; children, Richard Cummins (wife Angie), James Cummins (partner Tori), Stephanie Groom (husband Marty), Michelle Nelson (husband Tim), Jeremy Powell (wife Cris), Valorie Hergenreter (husband Russ); sister, Loralie Cruz; as well as 22 cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

While we grieve the loss of a remarkable man, let us also celebrate the life he lived—a life filled with courage, dedication, and an unshakable love for those around him.