Duane J. Pinkelman

Duane J. Pinkelman, age 86, of St. Helen, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at his home, surrounded by the presence and comfort of his family.
Duane was born on August 15, 1939, in Richfield Center, Ohio, the son of Germanus and Florence (Eckel) Pinkelman. He married Jane Marie Herbster on August 22, 1964, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Temperance, Michigan.
Raised in Richfield Center, Duane proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1963. Following his service, he worked for General Motors in Toledo, Ohio until his retirement in 1999, when he and his wife Jane moved to St. Helen, Michigan. It was there that Duane found one of his greatest joys – living in the woods. Whether watching the daily sunrise, enjoying his wildlife friends, or relaxing on the back porch, he never took for granted the blessings that came with this next chapter. Duane always looked forward to his family gathering in their northern home as well, and spending time together playing cards, tending to the property, and spending time on the pontoon.
Duane was deeply committed to serving his community. He spent many years as a volunteer firefighter and first responder with the Berkey, Ohio Fire Department, and he coached Little League baseball and CYO basketball through his home parish, Immaculate Conception Marygrove. During retirement, he continued his dedication to helping others through his work with St. Vincent de Paul, the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion, the Honor Guard, and St. Michael Catholic Church in Roscommon.
Duane found great joy in the outdoors and in time spent with family and friends. He loved hunting and fishing, working in his shop and in the woods, gardening, playing golf, and traveling with Jane whenever he could. Above all, Duane's life was guided by his faith, his devotion to God, and his unwavering commitment to his family and to serving others.
Duane will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jane; his sisters, Karen Noe and Nancy Lumbrezer; his children: Craig, Lisa (Tom) Markley, Christopher (Victoria), Keith (Aimee), and Daniel (Kendra); grandchildren Madison, Autumn (JJ), Kyle, Lillian, Lucas, Sam, Allison, Alayna, Malorie, & Seth; one great-granddaughter, Aella; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Germanus and Florence; his sister, Sister LaDonna Pinkelman; his brother, John Pinkelman; and his grandson, Joshua Pinkelman.
Family and friends will gather on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 5:00–8:00 PM, with the Rosary at 7:30 PM, at Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, 143 Lake Street, Roscommon, Michigan. The Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Michael Catholic Church, 104 North 6th Street, Roscommon.
If desired, memorial contributions may be made in Duane's name to Heartland Hospice or Compassionate Care, both in West Branch, Michigan, or to St. Michael Catholic Church in Roscommon.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.