Nampa, Idaho— Duane Treat, 74, known as Papa Bear to all who loved him, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his children on 5/14/2025. Duane was born, "born and raised," as he would always say when asked, in Boise, ID, on Feb 2, 1951. He was raised on a small dairy farm in Eagle. This is where he found his passion for hunting, fishing, adventure, fast cars, and riding his dirt bike. As a young man, he spent much of his time in the outdoors, where he drew many lessons from the peace, balance, and harmony nature provided. He also had a bit of a wild side! He would tell stories of fixing up his 57' Chevy Bel-Air two-door hardtop to take downtown and cruise or out to Firebird for bragging rights. Growing up on a farm, he taught himself to fix just about anything or "jerry-rig" it long enough to get a proper fix. Those skills propelled his career as a local handyman, which he proudly displayed on his license plate for years. He was always there to fix whatever needed fixing with every tool you could imagine. And his lighthearted, goofy personality to lift your spirits in your time of need. His famous "I'm a treat to everyone I meet" was his special, quirky way of introducing himself. Many times, he would be out late at night in the heat or cold fixing one of his vehicles or somebody else's to get it back on the road. He believed in having a spare for everything and a spare for the spare. He was always overprepared for every adventure. Even after his kids were all grown, he would still pack enough tents, sleeping bags, fishing poles, food, and snacks for a small village. He did this because of his thoughtful nature and wanting the best experience every time for each person. He was always giving out gifts or gadgets he bought or made for anyone that had voiced a need. Duane loved to sing! He made a point to sing loud in church and to turn every road trip into a chance to teach a new song or sing one we already knew.

Duane is survived by his fourteen children, forty-one grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His family will miss his big Papa Bear hugs, sharp kitchen knives, sourdough pancakes, goofy one-liners, and the beautiful deep voice he used to sing each one a birthday song every year.

Service will be held at Zeyer Funeral Chapel in Nampa at 10am on May 29, 2025.

Reception to follow.