Stephen Duster

Stephen Gerard Duster passed away on July 16, 2026, at the age of 72 after a prolonged psychiatric illness. A graveside committal will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Rapids.

Steve was born on May 14, 1954, in Clinton, Iowa, to William C. Duster and Margaret Morrissey Duster. He graduated from Edina High School in Edina, Minnesota, in 1972, where he participated in track and field and received a Student Scholastic Award. He attended the University of Arizona, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a major in Accounting. He graduated in the top ten percent of his class and was a member of Beta Alpha Psi, the national accounting honor society.

Following graduation, Steve began his professional career as an auditor with the Internal Revenue Service before accepting a commission as a Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). During a distinguished international career in financial management, auditing, and program oversight, he worked to safeguard the integrity of U.S. foreign assistance programs. His responsibilities included managing complex financial operations, directing audits, strengthening internal controls, and ensuring that American taxpayer funds were administered responsibly and in accordance with U.S. law.

His work took him throughout Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, where he earned the respect of colleagues for his professionalism, integrity, and ability to work effectively across cultures. Throughout his career, he received numerous commendations for improving financial accountability and stewardship in international development programs. While serving in Mozambique, Steve developed a debilitating psychiatric illness, possibly following exposure to the antimalarial drug mefloquine. The illness led to his early medical retirement from the Foreign Service. Steve embraced the opportunity to experience the people and cultures of the many countries where he lived and worked. Family members still treasure the unique gifts and keepsakes he brought home from around the world, each with its own story and lasting memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William C. Duster and Margaret Morrissey Duster.

He is survived by his wife, Magda Bent Duster of San Andrés Island, Colombia; his daughter, Carol Duster of Miami, Florida; and his extended family members, friends, and former colleagues.

Steve will be remembered for his engaging stories, memorable antics, infectious smile, and lifelong commitment to public service. His career reflected a deep belief in accountability,integrity, and service to others. His kindness, generosity, and stories of adventures from around the world left a lasting impression on all who knew him.