11/05/2025
It is with extremely heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Duane Conant.
The patriarch of our family farm, Duane laid the foundation for Conant Acres and dedicated the better part of his 83 years to his family, the Holstein cow and fellow breeders.
Starting with nothing but determination and a keen eye for cattle, Duane invested $155 in a Registered Holsten heifer in 1954. Through the years, he developed an elite herd from a foundation of grade cattle. Duane bred internationally acclaimed sires, two #1 CTPI cows and an unprecedented number of Excellent cows on a relatively small operation. He was honored with Distinguished Breeder recognition from the National Dairy Shrine, Holstein Association USA and the New England Holstein Association. He traveled the country, working and managing sales and earned a reputation as an honest and trustworthy person, a respected cowman, an outspoken advocate for the industry and a knowledgeable teacher.
Duane never met a stranger. His quick wit and humor were legendary, and got him out of several speeding tickets through the years! Duane’s energy and enthusiasm filled the room, and his wide circle of friends knew him to be incredibly compassionate, loyal and genuine.
He loved to share his passion for good cows with others. Whether hosting a lobsterbake for 500 or buying lobster rolls for a friend that was passing through, Duane was renowned for his hospitality and herd presentation. Farm guests always left the driveway with fond memories of great cows, great conversation and Governor Duane.
Our farm motto is “Where Families Come First” and there was nothing in the world that Duane was more proud of than his family. He never missed an event, from a basketball game to a dairy show to a graduation. In the summer, his favorite place was sitting on the front porch of the market, surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, selling corn, visiting and supervising the comings and goings at the farm. Of course, he was always quick to point out that none of his accomplishments would have been possible without the support of his wife of nearly 60 years, Betty. It brings peace to our family knowing that they are reunited again.
Duane’s passion for agriculture may have only been rivaled by his passion for sports, namely basketball. Through the years, he was an outstanding player, referee and avid fan, cheering for the Celtics with his mom and siblings, as well as his other favorite teams: the Dirigo Cougars, Duke Blue Devils and UConn Huskies. He loved watching his family, on the court and on the sidelines, and was never shy to offer his advice. There will be an empty seat in the front row at the Augusta Civic Center during high school basketball tournaments in February, and the week that he always loved won’t feel quite the same this year.
We appreciate your well wishes and prayers, and will share more details on arrangements when available.
