Duane William Dedelow, Sr.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Constance Brewster Dedelow; his son, Luke John Dedelow; his brother, Ed Dedelow; and his parents, Helen and William Dedelow. He is survived by ten of his eleven kids; his sister, Gayle Dedelow; his brother, Jim Dedelow (Kalliope); and his sister-in-law, Carol Dedelow.

Duane was the proud father of eleven children, Duane (Lori), Doreen (Jan), Dawn (Kenneth), David (Barbara), Douglas (Susan), Darryl, Darrin, Dana, Drew (Adrienne), Shannon (James), and Luke Dedelow. He was also the proud grandfather to countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His first wife, Irene Dedelow, the mother of his first nine children, and constant in all our lives, survives him. Irene and Constance shared a unique and lasting friendship, making the family dynamic even more special.

Constance and Duane were a match unlike any other. They often sat by the fire, sharing wine, laughter, and deep conversation. Their relationship was truly special and equally matched—they left nothing on the table. The loss of Connie, and Luke, took a piece of Duane that could never be replaced, yet he carried on courageously.

A formidable force in the business world, Duane served as CEO of Dedelow Inc. Through vision, determination, and grit, he built thriving enterprises and established a respected family name that will endure for generations.

Duane was known for being larger than life and the life of the party. His unmistakable laugh—booming and full of joy—could be heard from miles away. A deep thinker, he could also be serious and intense, yet beneath his strength was a tender and generous heart. Though a force to be reckoned with in business and sometimes within his family, his love for those closest to him was immense and unwavering.

He also had a soft spot for animals. Duane rarely had fewer than several dogs at a time and was known to feed the local wildlife —who he likely would have taken in as pets, if allowed.

Duane Dedelow, Sr. will be deeply missed by his family and those who knew him. His presence will be felt often and will never leave us. We will remember his strength, courage, success, and most of all, his love.

A visitation will be held at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307, on January 19, 2026, from 10:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm. Duane will be laid to rest at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Dedelow family.