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Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Duane, beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend, who departed this life on April 17, 2025 at the age of 69. Born on October 14,1955, Mick lived a life shaped by craftsmanship, curiosity and care for those he loved. A skilled carpenter and dedicated high school teacher, he spent his days building and crafting- not only kitchens, bathrooms and furniture but also young minds, strong values and lasting memories.
Michael started out after high school working at McLouth Steel in Trenton as a laborer. But being a Duane, he later moved into carpentry and woodworking. For many years, he built and installed beautiful kitchens and bathrooms. Later, his son Corey joined him in the trade and he passed on his skills and knowledge as they worked alongside each other for many years together. Finally, one day Mick decided he needed a retirement plan and he thought teaching would be a good next step, to pass on his love of carpentry, so he enrolled at Eastern Michigan University. While there he joined the Astronomy Club, made some friends and graduated in December 2007 with his Bachelors in Education. He was 52 years old. He was hired at Jackson High School and taught Woodshop I and II. Skilled as he was, the school asked him to design curriculum for Home Improvement I and II, which he did and taught those as well. He commuted from Taylor to Jackson, an hour each way, for many years where he learned as much from his students as they did from him. He shared countless stories about the diverse student population, their struggles and their accomplishments.
Aside from work, Mick had many interests. He found joy on the water, sailing his boat “The Black Swan” when he was younger. Trips around the Detroit Lighthouse, to Put-In- Bay and beyond. One year, thanks to an outstanding crew, he even managed to win the coveted Flossy Cup. Another love that brought him happiness was racing. He loved watching Nascar, even attended the Daytona 500 once. But nothing brought him more happiness than watching his son Corey race at Flat Rock Speedway. On Saturday
nights, you could find him in the pits, talking everyone’s ear off and cheering for his favorite driver.
Mick also loved visiting family and friends. He made the rounds visiting everyone, keeping up with their projects while working on his own. His good friend since childhood, Keith, always had a project going and he loved stopping by his shop often. Other times, he would visit with Candace, always bringing something educational for Alexis to check out and if the weather was nice- steaks for the grill because Adrian grilled them perfectly he said. He also made many trips up to spend time with his sister, Ann Marie and her husband Jerry. So many crafts, conversations and meals. He loved the countless fun times, birthdays and holidays that were spent with them and their boys Joshua, Matthew and Shaun. Mick also made time to keep in touch with his older brother Denny and his wife Cherie, in California. Long distance phone calls about any and everything but almost always about dogs. Mick loved his dog. Sammy, a big German Shepherd, his constant companion, always there for him.
Above all, Mick loved his family. He took immense pride in being a father and especially cherished his role as a grandfather. His four grandchildren were the lights of his life, frequent partners in woodworking projects and weekend adventures. Whether they were building a treehouse, having a campfire, stargazing or talking about life, time with Papa was always filled with warmth, laughter and learning. This was especially true for Savannah, as she held a very special place in his heart. He beamed with pride whenever he talked about her, her dreams and accomplishments.
Mick is survived by his children Candace (& Adrian) and Corey (& Lindsay), his four grandchildren Savannah, Tyler, Tiffany and Alexis, his siblings Gary, Dennis (& Cherie), Ann Marie (& Jerry), Michelle and his good boy Sammy. He is preceded in death by his parents Gerald and Margaret Duane.
Mick’s memory will live on in every hand-crafted gift, special furniture he made for family, every student he inspired and every smile he brought to the faces of those he loved. Much like his own mother, no matter what life brought, he always managed to keep a smile on his face and a positive outlook. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A celebration of Mick’s life will be held from 3-6pm on Saturday April 26 at Michigan Memorial, Flat Rock, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you perform an act of kindness in his honor or consider making a donation to shatterproof.org.
