Duane Vernon Birkenholtz, age 71 of Prairie City, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026 at MercyOne in Des Moines. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Prairie City Church of the Brethren. A luncheon will follow the service. Memorials may be directed to the family and checks made payable to Alan Birkenholtz. Condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com

The son of Floyd Vernon and Alberta (Gulling) Birkenholtz, Duane was born on December 27, 1954 in Prairie City. He graduated from Prairie CIty High School in 1973. Duane worked at Therma Gas in his younger years, Iowa Carpet and most recently at Metro Electric until his health forced him into retirement. Duane loved to be in or around the water whether it was fishing or boating. He also had a love for music. In high school he played trumpet in a band. He also enjoyed westerns and of course his sweets.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Alan (Julie) Birkenholtz, Jesse (Cate) Birkenholtz and Emily Birkenholtz; his grandchildren, Tate, Lily, Reid, Riley (Tony Smith) and Keegan as well as many other friends. Preceding him in death were his parents, a son, Brad Birkenholtz and his sister, Donna Birkenholtz.