Mr. Duane Alan Balaban, 68, of Macy, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 2:55 AM, Monday, March 11th, 2013 at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester. Born in Mason City, Iowa on March 5, 1945, Duane Alan was the treasured son of Mike and Elva Nolterieke Balaban. Growing up as one of five children, he shared his childhood with two sisters and two brothers. In 1963 with great pride, Duane graduated from Redlands Senior High School, Redlands, California. Soon after high school, patriotism beckoned him. Duane answered the call serving our country with the United States Air Force for over 22 years. He retired in 1985 being honorably discharged, achieving the rank of technical sergeant. In November of 1980, Duane married the love of his life who later became his best friend-- Dorothy Ann Ireland, at the Barksdale AFB in Bossier City, Louisiana. Their union of 32 years produced a son Michael. Over the years the family tree grew with the added blessings of two grandchildren. A life long learner, Duane returned to schoo,l graduating in 1997 from Western Oregon State with a degree in business administration. He owned a vast personal library with great collections on logic, cultures, debate and philosophy. An author and philosopher, Duane penned his thoughts in depth. Another forte' was Duane's custom woodworking projects. He created many kinds of toys for children. He especially enjoy building clocks. Duane is lovingly remembered by his wife Dorothy Ann; a son, Michael Balaban and wife Tonya of Max, ND; two grandchildren: Tyler Balaban and Mariah Balaban; a sister Sharyl Beattie and husband Jack of Salem Oregon; a brother Gerald Balaban of Dallas, Oregon; 3 canine companions: Scooper and Wiggles, both a Beagle mix, and Cuddles, a Miniature Dachshund; and several nieces and nephews who also survive. Preceding him in death are his parents and a sister, Sharon Froeschle, and a brother, Michael W. Balaban.