Thomas Duer

Thomas Edward Duer was born on November 13, 1938 in Chariton, Iowa to Neva and Chester Duer. He died at home, surrounded by his family, on July 31, 2021.

At an early age, Tom and his dad were involved in horse pulling around Iowa, and he spent several years as a jockey. Tom graduated from Melrose High School in 1957. He went on to spend 30 years at Armstrong Tire and Rubber, taking a two-year leave of absence to serve in the United States Army. While employed at Armstrong, he met and married Sally Palmersheim in 1964. He ‘retired’ in 1987, only to begin a whole new career. Besides working his small farm, Tom returned to school, and soon launched Duer and Sons Remodeling, a successful small business built on honesty, trust and word of mouth. He continued to play an active role in the business until his death.

Tom enjoyed many simple pursuits, such as planting and taking care of his acres of trees, hunting, fishing, and communing with nature on his farm. He lived his life with a complete trust in God. He was an active member of the SS John and Paul Catholic community. His construction background, generous spirit, and love for others drew him to volunteer his time with Habitat for Humanity—in Des Moines, around the United States, and as far away as El-Salvador.

Tom was preceded by death by his parents and brother Bill. He is survived by his loving wife Sally, as well as three sons—Kirk (Lori), their children Jarrett (Sheena), Tanner (Brodi), Riley and Sydney; Scott (Michelle), their children Adrian (Toni) and Ashley; and John (Julie) and their children Greyson, Bowen, and Jaxson. Tom is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Sullivan and Vera Jane, and by sisters Geneva Bequette, Nancy Moore and Patty Duer, and sister-in-law Carol Duer.

The family will greet friends from 4 to 7pm Thursday, August 5, 2021 at Ss. John and Paul Catholic Church, 1401 1st Ave S in Altoona with a vigil and rosary service to begin at 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10am Friday, August 6, 2021 at the church. Burial will follow at Altoona Cemetery where military honors will be rendered.

If you are unable to attend, please join the family virtually for both the Thursday evening vigil and rosary service as well as the Friday funeral mass by livestream – the link will be provided underneath Tom’s obituary at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com, where online condolences may be expressed also.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, Ss. John and Paul Catholic Church or Caring Hands Outreach Center in loving memory of Tom.

As Tom would say, “Now get back to work – we’re burnin' daylight!”

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