Obituary published on Legacy.com by Grace Memorial - Bower Rose Funeral Home - Marine City on Aug. 6, 2024.
Frank Floyd Duchane, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on March 24, 1948, in St. Clair, Michigan, he was the son of the late Floyd F. and Dorothy E. (Fritz) Duchane.
Frank married his soulmate, Nancy Jane Nichols, on September 16, 1969, in Hawaii, while he was on R&R during the Vietnam War. Together they enjoyed 54 years of marriage until her passing on May 25, 2024.
Frank is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Nicole (Tim) Golm of Cottrellville; his adored grandchildren, Nolan and Lillie; and his siblings, Ruth (Donnie) Black of Melvin, Betty (Terry) Styers of Beaverton, and Rick (Connie) Duchane of Cottrellville. He will also be deeply missed by his mother-in-law, Ruth Nichols of New Baltimore; brothers and sister-in-law, Mike (Marie) Nichols of Flat Rock, Dan (Mike Toppe) Nichols of Morro Bay, California, and Sara (Dave) Follebout of New Baltimore, along with many cherished nieces and nephews who looked up to him as a role model and confidant. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Glenn Nichols and his brother-in-law, James Nichols.
Frank's work ethic was unparalleled, and he retired after many years of dedicated service as a delivery driver for Praxair, formerly known as Wilson Welding Supply. His colleagues knew him as a man of integrity and good humor, always ready to lend a helping hand. A proud member of the Teamsters, Frank's commitment to his work was matched only by his commitment to his country. He served in the United States Army with distinction, earning several commendations for his service, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.
Raised on the family farm, Frank developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and conservation. He was an active member of the Perch Point Conservation Club, where he served as trap chairman and president multiple times. His leadership extended to the St. Clair County Pheasants Forever, where he recently held the position of Board of Directors Chairman. Frank's passion for the outdoors was evident in his love for hunting with his beloved dogs, Bear and Sadie. Whether it was duck, pheasant, or deer hunting in his younger years, or trap shooting, he found joy and solace in the beauty of nature.
Above all, Frank's heart belonged to his family. His grandchildren, Nolan and Lillie, were the lights of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He and Nolan shared a particularly close bond, often found together watching wildlife or sharing stories. Frank's legacy of love, laughter, and the importance of family will live on through them.
Frank's life was one of purpose and joy. His presence was a comfort, his laughter contagious, and his guidance invaluable. He leaves behind a legacy of love for the land, respect for his fellow man, and a family that adores him. Frank Floyd Duchane will be remembered not only for the life he lived but for the countless lives he touched along the way. His spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished forever.
Visitation will be Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Grace Memorial-Bower Rose Funeral Home, 222 N. Main Street,
Marine City, MI 48039. Funeral services will be Friday, August 9, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. A celebration of of Frank's life will follow at the Perch Point Conservation Club, 7930 Meisner Road, Casco, Michigan 48064. Interment will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery privately.
Memorials are suggested to "Wishes of the Family".
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