Duane "Rocky" Eugene Landis

Born on July 8, 1950, in Lancaster, OH, Duane lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, and an unwavering devotion to his family and community.

Duane was a graduate of Watkins Memorial High School, Class of 1968, and went on to attend Otterbein College, where he played football and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics in 1972.

Duane proudly served with the Columbus Division of Fire for over 37 years, retiring as a Lieutenant in March 2012. Affectionately known as “Rocky” around the firehouse, he was deeply respected for his courage, steady leadership, and willingness to always put others first.

Outside the fire department, Duane was a gifted builder and craftsman who enjoyed problem solving and working with his hands. He proudly built three homes for his family and spent over 40 years running his construction business. Duane found joy in life’s simple pleasures, from a cup of coffee to nature’s beauty that surrounds us, he was always present in those moments.

On September 14, 1972, Duane married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Beulah “Bootsie” (Smith) Landis. For more than 53 years he loved her deeply and faithfully, a devotion that remained the truest expression of his heart. Together they raised two sons, Dave (wife, Tasha) of Jacksonville, FL, and Jon Landis (wife, Maggie) of Atlanta, GA.

His greatest joy was his role to those who called him “Grampy Du,” often shortened to “Du” or “D.” Duane never missed an opportunity to spend time with any of his eight grandchildren. Erin (Jesse), Ireland, Hannah (Joe), Coleton, Nathan, Vivian, Dorothy, and Mickey, all brought him immense joy, endless laughter, and love.

Duane is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Eugene & Margaret Lenore Landis; brother, Raymond Drue Landis; and nephew, Heath Landis.

Duane is survived by his beloved wife, Bootsie; sons, Dave (wife, Tasha) and Jon (wife, Maggie); brother, Daniel (wife, Linda) Landis, along with many extended family members and lifelong friends.

A man of strong and steady faith, Duane believed in Jesus Christ as his Savior and found comfort in God’s guidance throughout his life. Duane will be remembered for his steady presence, kind heart, and the strong foundation he built for those he loved. His legacy of service, faith, and family will live on in all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Journey of Memories, 2196 Watkins Road SW, Pataskala, OH. Memorial service will promptly start at 7:00 PM. Family, friends, and members of the Columbus Division of Fire are invited to gather in honor of Duane and a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Duane’s memory to City of Hope through his donation page, https://ourhope.cityofhope.org/RememberingDuane (https://ourhope.cityofhope.org/fundraiser/7144543) or to CaringBridge through his page, (www.caringbridge.co and search “Duane Landis”.