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NIAGARA, Wis. -- Matthew Duane "Dudley" Neuens, 73, of Niagara, Wis., passed away peacefully Aug. 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family and the faith that sustained him throughout his life.
Born on June 22, 1953, in Milwaukee, to Donna and Matthew "Chubby" Neuens, Duane lived a life marked by hard work, generosity, laughter, and a deep appreciation for God's creation.
Duane was a man who truly loved the outdoors. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or working with horses, he felt most at home in nature. He had a remarkable gift for understanding horses, earning the admiration of many for his calm, intuitive way with them -- something those who knew him often described as being a horse whisperer. Duane enjoyed race car driving and working on cars with his dad, brothers, brother-in-law, longtime friend Wayne Champagne, and many other friends from the racetrack. He also found great joy in spending time with his family, riding dirt bikes and four wheelers, and creating memories that will be treasured forever.
He proudly served a brief time in the United States Air Force before beginning a long career of hard work. Duane worked for many years at Lakeshore in Kingsford, and later became known as the handyman everyone could count on. No project was too small, and no friend or family member was ever turned away when they needed a helping hand. His generosity and willingness to serve others left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Duane was equally known for his blunt, uncanny sense of humor. He had a way of telling it like it was, making people laugh even in difficult moments. His honesty, strength and wit were qualities that defined him to those who knew him.
Above all, Duane had a relationship with God that gave him peace and strength. As he battled cancer, he fought with courage while accepting that his days were ultimately in the Lord's hands. His faith brought him comfort, and he faced the end of his earthly journey with hope and trust in God's promise of eternal life.
Duane is survived by his loving mother, Donna Neuens; his children, Shannon (Mark) Marcouiller, Deanna Micoley (Rick Whiting), and Wayne Neuens; his siblings, Laurie Oliver, Robert (Shaundaya) Neuens, and Roger Neuens; along with many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and special friend, Kelly Detro.
He was preceded in death by his father, Matthew "Chubby" Neuens; his brother-in-law, Gary Oliver, and special friend, Debra Tears.
Though his presence will be deeply missed, Duane's love for his family, his generous spirit, and his unforgettable humor will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Condolences may be expressed to the family of Matthew Duane "Dudley" Neuens online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.
The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.