Robert Duane Fry

Robert Duane Fry passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Mid-Valley Hospital in Omak, Washington, at the age of 69. A devoted partner, father, grandfather, and proud tribal member, Duane was known for his strong work ethic, generous heart, and unforgettable sense of humor. Born on October 24, 1955, to Marie Agnes (Moomaw) Fry and Robert (Bob) Lee Fry, Duane was raised in Omak with deep roots in the community. He was an enrolled member of the Colville Confederated Tribes, with heritage from the Lakes (Sinixt) band and family ties to the Umatilla tribe through his mother’s lineage. He carried immense pride in his identity and culture throughout his life. Duane attended Wenatchee Valley College and Washington State University, where he studied forestry. Duane’s career began on the front lines of Washington’s wildlands, where he fought forest fires—work that reflected both his physical strength and bravery. He later built a long and respected career in management within the timber industry, serving as manager at Biles-Coleman Lumber Co., Omak Wood Products, and later Quality Veneer & Lumber Co.. Just before retirement, he worked at 12 Tribes Casino, where his dependability and calm presence made a lasting impression—stepping in without hesitation when emergencies arose, even administering CPR before first responders arrived. Outside of work, Duane found deep joy in the natural world—caring for horses with Margaret, gardening in their backyard, and watching birds from their patio in Omak. He had a lifelong love of rodeo, inspired by his grandfather Leo Moomaw. In his teens through early twenties, he competed in bull riding and saddle bronc across Washington State. In later years, he continued that tradition from home, cheering on televised rodeos with Margaret by his side. He also loved settling in to watch Mariners baseball and Seahawks football, always with one of his dogs nearby. Above all, Duane was a devoted dad and a proud grandfather. He thought the world of his daughters—Amber McKinnon, Krystal Desjardins, and Melissa Fry—offering steady love, guidance, and a listening ear. He cherished his role as “Grandpa Fry” to his granddaughters, Kora Desjardins and Madison Fry-Williams, and took immense pride in watching them grow. Duane is survived by his loving partner, Margaret Wilken; his daughters, Amber (Mike) McKinnon, Krystal (Derek) Desjardins, and Melissa Fry (Paul Wiens); his granddaughters, Kora and Madison; and his siblings, Doreen Vanetta and Gerald Fry (Katherine York). He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert (Bob) Lee Fry and Marie Agnes (Moomaw) Fry. In the fall of 2021, Duane was diagnosed with lung cancer and faced the journey ahead with incredible courage and determination. He fought hard for more than three years, undergoing multiple procedures and treatments with quiet strength and resilience. Throughout it all, he remained hopeful, open to every option, and deeply grateful to Margaret for her unwavering love and care, as well as to his oncology team at Confluence Health in Omak. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Duane’s name to a local tribal or environmental organization that reflects his love for nature and his heritage.

Robert Duane Fry

October 24, 1955 - March 27, 2025