Duane B Woodmansee

If heaven needed someone to grow enough corn and tomatoes to feed the neighborhood, laugh at a silly show, and teach the angels how to square dance, they chose the right man. On July 7, 2026, Duane Benjamin Woodmansee—beloved husband, father, grandfather, and occasional worrier-in-chief—passed away. Or in square dance speak, he “promenaded home.” Born on October 20, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Duane lived a life filled with simple joys and meaningful relationships. He was a proud graduate of the University of Utah. By profession, he was a financial and budget analyst, a man who could make numbers behave and spreadsheets balance with remarkable precision. Yet somehow, he always found time for the things that mattered most: family, fresh vegetables from his garden, traveling with loved ones, dear friends, and occasionally spending considerable energy thinking about things entirely outside of his control. For 48 years, Duane was a square dance caller who brought laughter, friendship, and joy to hundreds of dancers and countless students throughout Utah and Nevada. He firmly believed the saying: "Square dancing is friendship set to music." He didn't simply call dances—he built community. Though he held many titles—accountant, gardener, bus driver, square dance caller, and friend—the title he treasured most was Grandpa. His six grandchildren knew him as loving, loyal, cheerful, and endlessly devoted. Nothing made his icy blue eyes sparkle quite like having his grandchildren nearby. He loved them with his whole heart. As a grandfather, he is simply irreplaceable. Duane had a mischievous streak, a wonderful sense of humor, and a laugh we will sorely miss. He loved being outdoors, loved fishing and hiking and the beauty of his life-long state of Utah. He loved long baths and cold mountain water. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Finland and was a fluent Finnish speaker, though we have no idea what he was actually saying (Finnish is a hard language!) His favorite church calling was primary teacher. He was well-traveled and visited more than 20 countries with his wife of 53 years, Shauna McCloud Woodmansee. He leaves behind a family who loved him dearly—four children: Jaime Lynne, Lisa Marie, Angela Joy, and Brandon McCloud—who will forever think of him when they laugh together, see rows of ripening vegetables, or hear the familiar words, "Allemande left.” “Do si do.” “Heads face, grand square." His legacy is found in the friendships he cultivated, the family he adored, and the joy he brought to others. We know those gorgeous blue eyes will be keeping a close watch on us from the other side. Details regarding his Celebration of Life and an opportunity to share memories and condolences can be found at www.SerenityStG.com. In lieu of flowers, and in Duane's name, we ask that you consider donating to Innovative Harbor in St. George. Please Venmo @JmeLnneLea with “Duane” as the subject. This is a community-focused organization designed to empower individuals with disabilities through shared experiences and group activities. Duane's daughter, Angie, and many others are blessed daily by this organization. To attend services via zoom: https://zoom.us/j/94175788721