Died October 7, 2020.

Markesan District Schools, Markesan, WI

Superintendent

Obituary:

On Wednesday, October 7, 2020, Duane Douglas Bark went to his eternal home at the age of 61 years.

Duane was born on July 23, 1959, to Douglas & Jill (Myers) Bark in Lancaster, WI. At age four he and family moved to Montfort (from Brooklyn and Oregon) where he attended the Iowa-Grant school system. He graduated from Iowa-Grant in 1977. From there he attended the UW-Platteville and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. He furthered his education with a Master’s in Administration and an Education Special Degree.

On June 12, 1982, he married the love of his life Pamela Ferris and together they raised three amazing children who are his pride and joy. Duane was also “papa” or “poppy” to six grandchildren, who had him wrapped around their fingers. It was his sheer joy to spend time, play and even dance with them.

Duane spent his life as an educator, administrator, coach, leader and mentor. He has influenced and impacted countless lives in various school districts he has served. His greatest mission in life was to help others reach their full potential and in return he earned the love and respect of many. Duane was a man of faith in all he did, he led by example, and was a true testimony to God. He was an inspiration to all and left a legacy of love far and wide. Besides spending time with family, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, sports and of course mowing his lawn. He coached many sports for 32 years including football, wrestling, softball and baseball. He was an avid Badger fan, enjoyed watching sports on TV with family and friends, and attending all school activities.

Duane is survived by his wife, Pam, his children and grandchildren: Dr. Bradley (Candice)- Cora, David and Reuben of Muscatine, IA. Brian (Caitlin)- Henry, Russell and Eliza of Poynette, WI. Brittany of Markesan, WI. His parents Doug and Jill Bark, his “sis” Kim (Al) White, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nieces and nephews, mother-in-law, Charlotte Ferris, and his canine hunting sidekicks Beau and Gracie; other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by maternal and paternal grandparents, infant brother David, father-in-law, Dean Ferris and sister-in-law, Jolene Kaiser; dear friends Grizz, Jeff and Tom; and faithful hunting dogs Belle and Lexy.