Duane Charles Gentner

Duane Charles Gentner, age 78 of Warren, died Friday, November 4, 2016 at St. John Macomb-Oakland Hospital, Macomb Center in Warren. He was born April 12, 1938 in Ruth, Michigan, son of the late Leland and the late Emma (nee: Geiger) Gentner.If one were to use Duane's employment as a measurement of the man, then you'd easily find a history of dedicated service excellence to his work and job at what would eventually become the Masco Corporation. Climbing his way up the ladder, Duane ultimately reached the heights of General Supervisor with the firm, the position he retained until accepting his well-deserved retirement.Yet if you were honestly seeking to measure this man of success and accomplishments, you'd easily find a more true and meaningful representation in the many lives he touched,…both family and friends alike. For those who knew Duane and spent any time in his company, they'll attest to the fun-loving and infectious personality he possessed and how his presence wasn't merely felt,…but how it enveloped you like a warm & fuzzy embrace. This could easily be proven and witnessed by the host of friends that he and his bride, Jane engaged with throughout the last 50 plus years.And speaking of his "bride,"…sharing the "measure of the man" would definitely have to include his wisdom and foresight in choosing the beautiful soul he did to be his helpmate in life. Following what surely must have been a loving and romantic courtship, the two lovebirds decided to make it a lifelong journey and were joined in marriage on October 6, 1962 at St. Mary's Church in Parisville, Michigan. With a simple "I Do,"...Duane invited his precious Jane to share his life, and the story of their love spanned over 54 wonderful years together. Along with a great job,…a great marriage,…and great friends, Duane will also be remembered for some of the passions that filled his life as well. Like the "green thumb" that he put to work in his glorious vegetable garden. He took such immense pride in caring for its growth and nurtured it with the utmost of TLC,…just as he did with the people in his life. And as with many men in this world, Duane was noted for the many hours spent in his second home,…the macho mansion known more familiarly as "the garage." Tim Allen had NOTHIN' on Duane when it came to tinkering around with small engine repairs. Whether for family, friends, or his many neighbors, he loved getting his hands on something that needed the touch of a pro,…and he truly knew how to handle his,…well, you know.Another passion Duane enjoyed immeasurably was the many times spent with family and friends while floating upon the quiet waters of Howell's, Lake Chemung aboard his pleasure-making pontoon boat. Nothing quite says "fun and relaxation" like basking in a sun-filled day with loved ones on the lake,…and Duane had that down in spades.Speaking of spades,…telling a story of Duane just wouldn't be replete without mentioning the penchant he possessed for one of his favorite pastimes, playing cards. Ooh, Mama,…Duane could often put the hurtin' on the competition when it came to slingin' those cards,…and Jane can attest to the many decks that were wore out over the years. Playing cards brought out the beast,…I mean, best in Duane,…as experienced by the numerous partners that he and Jane shared their Card Club with for many, wonderful years. And though his card playing was kind of "gambling lite,"…his appetite for intrigue and anticipation was often enjoyed at another favorite haunt, the Casinos. Earlier days were enjoyed amidst the glitz and glamour of Vegas, but the more golden years were spent giving Ol' Lady Luck a run for her money at the more local venues. Then there were his birds. He loved watching and caring for the many species that flitted in and out of his yard,…especially when he was taking it all in from the comfort of his favorite chair. He always made sure his little avian pals were well fed,…which is probably why his yard was a bit of bird heaven.And perhaps most precious in his repertoire of passions were the countless nights enjoyed in Jane's arms as they whisked their way around the dance floor while doing the Polka. The two were a sight to behold, and Duane held her tight with each spin and kick that made them both look like pro's. Duane was a dedicated family man who always put his family's needs before his own. He adored his grandchildren and was truly a shining example to them of what it meant to be a well-rounded, kind and loving human being. He was their heart,…their hero! And for his children, he always strove to provide them the best home and family environment they could hope for,…and he was an extraordinary Dad.A loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, Duane truly impacted a multitude of hearts and lives in his earthly journey,…and each person who was blessed to know him can attest to how he was an influence for everything good and admirable. He leaves a legacy of love for the ages, a love that will be revisited with each reflection shared. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally. Duane was the beloved husband of Jane, his bride of 54 years. Dearest father of Julie (Paul) Rugenski and Paul Gentner. Loving grandfather of Paul Morang and Jessica Rugenski. Treasured brother of Marie (Jim) Oswald, Melvin (Carol) Gentner, Robert (Sharon) Gentner, and Charles Gentner. He was also the cherished brother-in-law of Jerome (the late Lucille) Kolar, Marion (Joseph) Messing, Theresa (the late Richard) Glass, Rose Mary (Russell) Messing, and Elizabeth (Donald) Schumacher. Visitation for Duane will be held Monday, November 7th from 3-9 pm, with a 7:00 pm Scripture Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. His Funeral Mass will be conducted Tuesday at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Warren where he will lie in state from 11:00 am until the time of his Funeral Mass at 11:30 am. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan. Please share memories of Duane at his memory book.