Duane Robert Wilkey

Duane Robert Wilkey, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on February 3, 2025, in Hurricane, Utah, after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just ten days prior. Born October 11, 1955, in Nephi, Juab, Utah, he was the son of Kenneth Richard Wilkey and Naomi Bylund. He moved to Salt Lake City as a young boy, where he quickly became known for his friendly nature and ability to make friends with anyone. An Eagle Scout, Duane loved camping and fishing, and these outdoor activities remained a lifelong passion. 

He graduated from Granger High School in West Valley City, Utah, and went on to have a varied career. He started at Walker Bank in the Loan Recovery department, where he met his wife, Cindy. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to part ownership in several businesses, and he concluded his career as a biomedical repair technician repairing hospital equipment at Med One Group. 

Duane and Cindy were married June 21, 1980, in West Valley City, Utah, and was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple on June 21, 1982. They were blessed with three children and three grandchildren, and cherished his role as a father and grandfather, actively participating in their lives by attending numerous sporting events and musical and dance recitals. 

Duane was known for his frugality and self-sufficiency, qualities he instilled in his children. Family was paramount to him, and he maintained strong ties with his siblings and close cousins. He taught his children the value of hard work and the importance of family. 

Traveling the world was Duane’s primary passion. He visited Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and all but one state of the United States—Alaska, with Hawaii being his favorite. His travels allowed him to experience different cultures and cuisines, made even more special by sharing these adventures with friends and family. 

Duane’s life motto was "I need a vacation," and his fun-loving nature and love for jokes brought laughter to those around him. He was known as a problem-solver and fixer, always having an endless supply of “go to” people he could call on for help. Duane was an avid BYU sports fan. He loved to watch BYU football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, softball, and baseball. If the games were televised, he was watching. 

A life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Duane held many callings, but serving in the Jordan River Temple baptistry was his favorite. He generously gave his time and resources to help anyone in need and was a loyal friend, always making an effort to participate in family and friends’ important life events. Duane is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Naomi Wilkey. 

He is survived by his wife, Cindy (Banks) Wilkey, children Justin (Courtney), Aaron (Jacey), Megan Mills (Cas), 3 grandchildren Kaden, Tayson, and Lucas, his siblings Curtis (Donna), Janice Warr (Bonner), Richard (Cindy), Kent (Stephanie), Pauline Bench (Kevin), Kathleen, John (Jodi), and many close cousins.

 A viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 12, from 6:00 – 7:30 pm at McArthur Funeral Home,160 W. 700 S., St. George, Utah. Another viewing will be held on Thursday, February 13, at 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 with the funeral following at 12:00 pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 642 N. 2850 W., Hurricane, Utah. Interment will follow the services at Hurricane City Cemetery. 

Duane will be remembered as a loyal friend, a loving family man, and a generous soul who lived life to the fullest and brought joy to everyone he encountered. His parting advice, "Don't waste a minute," is a testament to the life he lived.