W. Duane Bodfish

Duane began his life May 30, 1937 in South Haven Michigan and passed away peacefully on April 19, 2019 at Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville, Michigan, surrounded by his family.

Duane spent his life close to the area growing up in Casco Township and graduating from South Haven High School. He went on to complete his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University in 1965. During his time at WMU, he met the love of his life, Gloria Jaquays, and were married October 26, 1962 and spent the next 56 years together.

Duane was employed at the Watervliet Paper Company until its closure and retired from French Paper Company in Niles, Michigan in 2004.

In his retirement, he enjoyed fishing with the grandchildren, building his work of art bird houses, and spending his time at home in Watervliet. Duane was a member of the Watervliet Lions Club for 50 years and was also a member of the American Legion and Moose Club of South Haven.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents, Welton and Donna Bodfish, three brothers, Ronald, Edward, and Charles.

He is survived by his wife Gloria, and a sister, Jacqueline McIntosh of Madison Wisconsin, three sons Alan (Colleen Curtis) Bodfish of Watervliet, Bruce (Michelle) Bodfish of Plainwell, and Andrew (Kimberly) Bodfish of Grand Rapids. He is also survived by seven grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 27th, at Hutchins Funeral home at 12:00 PM with visitation prior starting at 11:00 AM

Memorials may be made in his name to the Watervliet Lions Club, Plymouth Congregational Church of Watervliet, or the North Berrien Senior Center.

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