Duane was born May 2, 1960, in Wichita, Kansas to Joe Mitchell, and Ida (Schierenbeck) Mitchell. The family lived in Wichita Kansas at the time of his birth. At an early age, Duane had an interest in cars. He was fascinated with NASCAR, and a deep love of the Camaro. Duane married Candice in 1982. The marriage gave him his son, Christopher. The marriage ended in 1986.
Duane is survived by his son, Christopher Mitchell, mother, Ida Mitchell, sister Jo Etta Hill and husband Larry, brother Gary Mitchell, sister Cheryl Prothro and husband Larry Prothro, nephew Nathan Prothro, great niece Neaveh Prothro, several cousins and extended family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.