Duane Taylor

James Duane Taylor, age 92, of Hillsdale, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. He was born March 16, 1932, in Cambria, to William "Stub" and Helene (Frager) Taylor. Duane married Beverly Kasper on August 23, 1958, and she survives.
Duane graduated valedictorian from Reading High School in 1950 and from Hillsdale College in 1955 with a bachelor's degree in business. While attending Hillsdale College, Duane played basketball and football. He was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and president of his senior class. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict from 1955-1957. In 1963, Duane received his master's degree from Western Michigan University in business administration. For 35 years, he was employed at Consumers Energy, retiring as vice-president of human resources. He was a member of the Hillsdale First Presbyterian Church, former board member of Key Opportunities, Hillsdale Community Schools, and the Hillsdale Golf and Country Club. Duane and Bev were devoted supporters of Hillsdale College, longtime members of the Hillsdale College Presidents Club, and recipients of the 2017 Hillsdale College Tower Award. Duane also enjoyed golfing, playing bridge, and spending time at home on his gentleman's farm.
In addition to his wife of 65 years, Bev Taylor, Duane is survived by two daughters, Leslie (Dave) Laden, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, and Melissa "Missy" (Jeff) Lillrose of Marshall, Michigan; one son, Matthew (Christie) Taylor of Manchester, Michigan; eight grandchildren; one great-grandson; and one sister, Judy Bowerman of Punta Gorda, Florida.
Duane was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services for Duane Taylor will take place Friday, July 26, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Hillsdale First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Scott Cress officiating. Cremation will follow the service and private family interment will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Hillsdale. The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday from 5:00-8:00 PM at the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hillsdale College (33 E. College Street, Hillsdale, MI, 49242) – "In the memory of Duane Taylor - Chargers Men's Basketball Endowment Fund".