Helping Aaron Duenke's Amazing Children

On December 27, 2022, while most people in the charming town of Washington, Missouri were still basking in the celebration of the birth of Jesus and the joys of the Christmas holiday, one of their own, Aaron Duenke embarked on what was to be a short journey to enjoy the beauty of the Earth that we are all so blessed to call home, but don’t always fully appreciate. An avid and experienced river paddler and lover of all things nature, especially the river, Aaron set adrift once again, on a large ice flow. But this time despite his vast experience as a paddler and specifically of doing so many times on the Missouri River, he tragically never arrived at his designated pick up point. Unfortunately, regardless of the ongoing efforts of hundreds of loved ones and volunteers searching the river and riverbanks, he has not been located.

As Aaron’s mother's best friend since 6th grade, I have watched Aaron grow from the moment of his birth into the amazing person he was. A true one-of-a-kind, Aaron’s heart and love of all mankind ran deeper and longer than any river. If you knew Aaron personally, you were loved immensely by him and if you didn’t know him personally, you were still loved by Aaron. To say he was thoughtful and kind-hearted was an understatement as he was guided by his heart, always willing to lend a hand even when not asked and was, as some describe “a beacon of love”. He was passionate about humanity and strived to have a positive impact on the world. His positivity and free-spirited attitude never failed to uplift those around him. Aaron was absolutely the coolest, most attentive dad to the two children, Lucas and Lola. Aaron's absence will be sorely felt by all who knew him. The legacy he leaves in his kind acts towards others, and especially in the compassion and sense of humor he's instilled in Lucas and Lola will forever be a solace and a reminder of the incredible man he was. He had a zest for life and I believe that there is a little bit of Aaron in every one of us; a desire to conquer our fears, to live life on our terms and to live life to its fullest rather than simply existing.

While Aaron unexpectedly has found his forever peace at home in the river he so loved, at only 7 and 9 years old respectively, Lola and Lucas are now facing the unthinkable; growing up without the father who has guided them, loved them, inspired them, and supported them. Unfortunately, as Aaron has not been located, the governmental support system for children who lose a parent will not step in to assist with their needs as quickly as one could hope. So, on behalf of Lucas and Lola and with the permission of Aaron’s immediate family, I am establishing this fundraiser with the hopes to help support them as they embark on this unexpected journey. All funds received will be placed into trust for the children as they navigate the remainder of their childhood without Aaron.

Thank you for your generosity, kindness and support.