Brian Dean Duitsman, 65, of Flatville passed away Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Funeral services will be held at 11:30am Thursday, October 9 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville with Reverend Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Huls Cemetery, Gifford. Visitation will be from 9-11am Thursday, also at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is handling arrangements.
Brian was born on January 8, 1960 at Mercy Hospital in Urbana.
Brian graduated from Rantoul High Township School in 1978 and went on to study diesel mechanics at Parkland College, graduating with an Associate’s Degree in 1980.
Brian loved living on the farm, farming, and being outdoors. In the summer, Brian loved spending summer vacations in Minnesota fishing with family and friends.
As a kid, Brian raised his own cattle and made a hobby of repairing small engines. He loved explaining the intricacies of engines and could make the mechanics easy to understand for anyone.
Brian loved muscle cars and could name the make, model and year of a car by a quick glance.
One of his most memorable adventures was with his Mom, Anna and Dad, John on an Alaskan cruise where he met the daughter of Ray Washburn of the St. Louis Cardinals. She was so impressed by his love for the Cardinals that she invited the family to attend a game at Busch Stadium as her guest.
Brian never missed a Cardinals game, and enjoyed a fun rivalry with his dad who loved the Chicago Cubs.
Surviving are Brian’s siblings Vaughn (Nadezhda), Marc, Deborah, and Joanne, his nephews, nieces, and loving extended family.
Brian was a friend to all, and his kindness, compassion, great sense of humor and love of laughter will be greatly missed by his siblings, family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please send your memorial contributions to Salvation Army Pathway of Hope.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.