Carl Arthur Duley

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Live stream link for the service at St. John Lutheran Church

Carl Arthur Duley, age 62 of Alma, WI, passed peacefully on October 4, 2023, at Gundersen Health in La Crosse, WI surrounded by family. He was born on October 26, 1960, in Merrill, WI to George and Elaine (Riemer) Duley, their youngest of five children.

Carl cared deeply about his faith, family, and his community which was evident in the way he lived his life. He was raised on the family farm in Merrill where he developed a strong work ethic and learned to work together for a common purpose. Carl was actively involved in his church, 4-H, FFA, football, and he especially loved playing alto saxophone in the jazz band. He graduated from Merrill High School in 1978 and pursued his higher education at UW-River Falls, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Farm Management and a master’s degree in Agricultural Education. In 1982, Carl met the love of his life, Cindy Chase at UW-River Falls through Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity and they enjoyed dancing together. Carl and Cindy were married on June 27, 1987 at St. John Lutheran Church in Alma and they were blessed with their son, Lucas, the light of their lives.

Carl's country roots and educational background laid the foundation for a successful career that spanned almost four decades. He accepted his first professional position in 1985 as the Buffalo County Agriculture Extension Agent and he remained committed to this role until his very last days. Carl cherished his relationships and had a knack for connecting people with resources and each other. His strategic planning abilities were unmatched, and he liked to combine work with pleasure by facilitating groups throughout the state as well as overseas with volunteer work trips to Trinidad, Macedonia, Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, and Tanzania. Carl liked to grow things and he appreciated seeing people and ideas flourish. His passion for working with others was evident to all who knew him and many of his research projects continue to benefit the agricultural community to this day. With an open heart and a generous spirit, he was always willing to share his vast knowledge with those around him.

Carl's warm smile, positive attitude, and fun-loving presence endeared him to everyone he met. He possessed a genuine desire to help others with their endeavors and his dedication extended beyond the professional realm as he actively participated in the community by serving as an EMR with Western Buffalo County Ambulance Service and coordinating the local Red Cross Blood Drive. As an integral member of St. John Lutheran Church, Carl served in many roles including council president, teaching Sunday School and confirmation classes, cooking breakfasts, Christmas caroling, and leading several mission work trips for hurricane relief efforts. He found great joy in participating in the church dart ball league, which served as an opportunity for him to bond with others who shared his faith and love for friendly competition.

Carl made significant contributions to the community, and he was an enthusiastic supporter of youth and local schools. He shared his passion for volleyball by coaching at Alma Area School for many years and he was continually inspired and encouraged by the goodness of our young people. When Carl was diagnosed with ALS, he brought awareness to the community by giving group presentations, participating in research and advocacy efforts, and gathering people together for the Eau Claire Express Lou Gehrig Day baseball games, the ALS Walk, and other events. His commitment to making the world a better place remained unwavering throughout his life, and one of his last gifts was as an organ donor.

Carl's legacy of love will be forever cherished by those who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy, and their son, Lucas, who were the center of his world. Carl also leaves behind his brothers: David (Heidi) Duley of Merrill, WI; Duane (Dianne) Duley of Kearney, NE; Keith (Julie) Duley of Merrill, WI; and sister Doris (Paul) Clausen of Aniwa, WI, as well as aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws. His warmth, wisdom, and compassionate nature will be deeply missed by his family and friends.  Carl was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Carl's life will be held on October 11, 2023, from 12:00 PM until the time of service at 3:00 PM at St. John Lutheran Church - Alma, WI. Burial will follow at Mill Creek Cemetery, Alma. Carl wanted people to know that they are welcome to wear their blood drive, volleyball, and other service-oriented attire.

In remembrance of Carl’s life filled with compassion and selflessness, memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association Wisconsin Chapter, Red Cross, St. John’s Mission Fund, or his latest project, community accessibility.

Carl was an educator at heart who touched the lives of countless individuals with his kindness, generosity, and immense knowledge. His memory will continue to inspire us all as we strive for excellence in our own pursuits. May he rest in eternal peace knowing that he made a lasting difference in the world around him.  

Talbot Family Funeral Homes - Scenic Rivers Cremation Center assisted the family with arrangements.  www.talbotfuneralhomes.com

  To honor Carl, the family asks if memorials could be directed to:

ALS Association Wisconsin Chapter

3333 N Mayfair Rd, Suite #104

Wauwatosa, WI 53222

American Red Cross - Southwest Chapter

4860 Sheboygan Ave

Madison, WI 53705

St John’s Mission Fund

709 S. 2nd St.

Alma, WI 54610

Alma Community Accessibility fund