Duane D. Heffner

Duane D. Heffner, 89, of Mancelona, MI, passed from this life on August 13, 2024. Duane was born on April 16, 1935, in Gladwin, MI, to Edwin and Gladys (Eagleson) Heffner. While serving in the United States Army as a Military Policeman in Lawton, OK, he met Betty Lou Keck. They were united in marriage on September 6, 1959, and were together for over 60 years. 

 Duane worked for General Motors at the truck assembly plant in Flint, MI for 35 years, working as a Quality Control Supervisor. After retiring from General Motors in Flint, Duane and Betty moved to Mancelona, MI, where he served on the Board of Review for Mancelona Township. Duane was a dedicated member of the Church of Christ, serving as a Deacon at the Bristol Road congregation (Flint, MI), and later serving as an Elder at the Gaylord congregation (Gaylord, MI). 

 Duane was an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and the University of Michigan football team; he loved being outdoors, especially at their property in Mancelona. He loved listening to polka music and playing the part of Klack Klaus for his grandkids each Christmas season. Most of all, Duane loved and adored his family. 

 Duane was preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty Heffner; his parents, Edwin and Gladys Heffner; sisters, Judy Caine and Beverly Cameron; brothers, Ron Heffner and Ken Heffner. 

 Left to cherish Duane’s memory are his children, Tammy (Shannon) Johnson, Susan (Keith) Franklin, Steve (Gina) Heffner, Todd (Marci) Heffner; his grandchildren, Logan (Micayla) Johnson, Kyle Johnson (Brooke Krassa), Stevie Heffner (Rhaianna Espitia), KJ Franklin, Kaylee (Skyler) Courter, Edwin Heffner, Nick Franklin, Jacob Evans, and Emily Heffner (Jacob Brown); his great-grandchildren, Beau Courter, Alayah Johnson, Weston Heffner, Reece Johnson, Greyson Evans, and Raelynn Heffner; sisters, Lois Howell and Karen Miller; brother, Dennis Heffner; many nieces and nephews. 

 A memorial service will take place on Saturday, August 31, 2024, starting at 1:00 PM at the Gaylord Church of Christ, located at 1760 S. Otsego Ave Gaylord, MI 49735. Minister and friend Mark Sherfield will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to In Search of the Lord’s Way.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.