Duane Straley

Duane Straley, age 77, of Blanchard, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at Spectrum Health United Hospital in Greenville.

Duane served his community as a law enforcement officer for over 20 years, working as a Deputy with the Montcalm County Sheriff’s Department and then as the Chief of Police for Home Township. During that time, Duane also ran a Rescue Unit for Montcalm County EMS. After his retirement from law enforcement and rescue, Duane began his second career, becoming an over-the-road truck driver, which he did for over 20 years. Throughout his life, Duane loved to read and learn new things. He was a self proclaimed “History Buff” who enjoyed reading people’s biographies, historical events, and other non-fiction books. When he was younger, Duane loved riding his motorcycle, and as he got older, Duane really enjoyed sitting on the porch with his dogs where they would watch the birds, and tending to his vegetable garden. Duane will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Surviving Duane is his wife of 56 years, Kathy Straley; daughters, Tammie (Doug) Hall, Terri (Doug) Freeman, and Tina (Gerad) Himebaugh; grandchildren, Cameron Hall, Chelsea Freeman, Ryan Freeman, Chance Himebaugh, and Elle Himebaugh; great granddaughter, Josie Hall; nephew, Lewis (Chris) Patch; great niece, Tori Patch; great nephew, Hunter Patch; and many great friends.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis & Peggy (Rathbone) Straley; sister, Jackie Swisher; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ronald & Irene Pelton.

In honoring Duane’s wishes no formal funeral ceremony will be held.