Duane C. White

Duane Carl White, age 76, of Belding, passed away peacefully in his home following a long illness. He was born on October 01, 1948, in Sidney, Michigan son of Melbert Carl and Viola Zenith (Thacker) White, both of whom precede him in death. He attended Belding schools, and from a very young age, worked alongside his father in the family-owned junk yard where it quickly became evident that Duane was a natural-born mechanic. He could “pull-a-motor” and get any car running in no time. Eventually Duane owned and operated two of his own salvage yards including West Ellis Salvage Yard and more recently, Fenwick Auto Sales. It has been said of Duane that he was so good at selling cars that he could talk a person into buying one, even if they didn’t need or want one. In addition to fishing and hunting, he loved restoring old cars as well, and took a ride, with the top down, in his 1966 convertible Plymouth Fury I Sport, just the day prior to passing away. Through the years his work with cars resulted in lots of parts and pieces that he acquired and kept for possible future use. He referred to himself as a “pilot” because when he hoarded items he would “pile-it here and pile-it there”. He also drove for the Mennonite community for many years as well and made lasting friendships through that service work. Duane dearly loved his family and friends, and those bonds were strong whether he had seen you recently or not. He was a member at Shiloh Community Church for many years and attending when his health allowed him to, watching services online when needed. Duane had a quick wit and was always ready with the perfectly timed joke for the occasion, which has left many happy memories of his laughter and love, which will be cherished forever.

Duane leaves his dear wife, Linda J. (Wireman) White of Belding; his children, Liza Jane (Glen) Strouse of Belding, Viola (Dan) Ibarra of Entrican, and Laura Jo (Mike) Wilson of Belding; 17 dear grandchildren and 16 beloved great grandchildren, a brother Melbert (Pam) White of Belding; a special niece who he considered his own, Nichole (Robert) McKeever of Belding; a brother-in-law, Patrick Rieley; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, Duane White, Jr., and Clifford Carl White; a daughter, Bobbi Jo White; and siblings, Carolyn Yomans, JoAnn Rieley, Darwin White, and Alfred White.

Duane’s family will celebrate his life and legacy with a private gathering and interment of his cremated remains in the near future. Those who wish to express their sympathy are encouraged to consider a contribution to the charity of their choice in Duane’s memory. For additional information, please call Verdun Family Funeral Home at (616) 794-1300.