By Marci Narum

It’s not unusual for a vehicle to be the object of a man’s desire and affection. But this is a different kind of love story involving a man and his car.

Duane Aman is finally driving his dream car—a 2015 red Chevy Camaro super sport convertible, perfect for summer nights and autumn days in North Dakota. There is just one thing missing: his wife, Agnes.

“We were going to buy one of these cars in 2012 but she was diagnosed with cancer,” Duane says.

Duane put his dream on hold because having Agnes was more important to him than any sporty car.

“She was a good fighter. She fought all that time. It was hard to see her do that, but she fought with interest in trying to win. She was a very good woman.”

Agnes was a registered nurse and worked for Sanford Health for 49 years. She died August 22, 2015 at age 74.

All the while Agnes was fighting cancer, Duane drove her to her treatments at the hospital and appointments at the Bismarck Cancer Center. After getting her home and settled each day, he would go back to the center to offer his help, giving rides to other patients who didn’t have transportation or were unable to drive because of their illness. That was four-and-a-half years ago. Duane says he promised Agnes that he would keep giving rides as long as he was able.

“A lot of people come in from out of town or they can’t walk very far. Even if it’s a short distance I’ll go pick them up.”

Bismarck Cancer Center marketing director, Sara Kelsch says Duane volunteers several times a week.

“Unfortunately, we have several patients in the Bismarck-Mandan area who need transportation to and from treatment,” Sara explains.

When the center started a volunteer program a little over a year ago, Sara says Duane was quick to jump in.

“Not only does it provide a needed service to our patients, Duane is the biggest sweetheart. And of course, patients are thrilled to ride in his convertible when the weather permits. He’s won over the hearts of everyone at the cancer center. We’re happy to have him be part of us.”

Agnes was part of Duane’s life for more than 50 years. They were married in 1962 after dating for four years. He recalls the first time he met her:

“She worked at a café in Wishek. She was walking home one day and I asked her if she wanted a ride home. She took me up on it.”

So it seems this man’s love story is right back where it began, and it seems to have no end.

“On her death bed she said, ‘You go buy yourself the car. Just be careful.’ The car is in memory of her.”

To see more photos of Duane, click here for a gallery by Photos by Jacy.