Duane Wisner

WISNER

Duane

Duane Wisner passed away of natural causes, peacefully in his sleep, on August 18.

Duane had just celebrated his 84th birthday on August 9. He was born in Toledo to Clarence and Mary Wisniewski. He attended the former St. Theresa's Catholic School, as well as Toledo's Central Catholic High School, where he played football. It was there that one of the priests/coaches tagged him with the name, "Wis" which followed him throughout his life. When Wis sustained a broken leg which left him bed-ridden for a six month recovery, he planned out his future. Wis decided to better his life and to attend the University of Toledo where he quickly made friends with many, especially those in his fraternity, Phi Kappa Psi. It was during those years, when many friends were sent to the Korean War, that Wis chose to serve his country by joining the U.S. Naval Reserves. Wis went on to complete his degree at "TU" and graduated with a bachelors of arts. It was there that he met Jackie Riggs, who would become his wife and soul mate.

Wis followed his passion for building and designing by seeking a career in the construction field. He first worked as a draftsman and then in concrete sales for companies including Medusa and Cemex.

Throughout his work and retirement years, Wis was loyal to Central Catholic High School and his Phi Psi Fraternity, attending monthly luncheons and reunions.

Wis was also a consummate University of Toledo sports fan, holding season tickets for basketball and football, supporting fund-raising events, as well as being a member of the Downtown Coaches.

Wis and Jackie were married for 56 years until her passing in November 2012.

During his retirement, he enjoyed traveling to northern Michigan, Texas, and Disney World.

Wis leaves behind his loving daughters, Sally (Miguel) Castillo and Polly (Jon) Ulrich; as well as three grandchildren, Tony, Emmy, and Jonny. He is also survived by his beloved in-laws, Jim and Joanne Riggs, and Lindsay, Wade, Carson and Claire Countryman.

Friends, neighbors and family are invited to attend a celebration to be held on Saturday, August 23, at the Toledo Fire Fighter's Local 92 Union Hall, 714 Washington St., Toledo, Ohio 43604 from 12-3 p.m.

Wis said that he always wanted to leave this world with words for his friends to remember him by, simply, "Wis Was."