Duane F. Hegemier, 85, of New Bremen died May 28, 2018 at Elmwood Assisted Living of New Bremen.

He was born April 4, 1933 in New Bremen to Arnold and Viola (Heinfeld) Hegemier. He was a graduate of New Bremen High School and served two years in the armed services during the Korean conflict. On April 21, 1957, he married Alice Schrock Hegemier who survives, and they recently observed 61 years of marriage.

Surviving are two sons, Ron (Brigid) Hegemier of New Bremen and Brad Hegemier of Dayton. Grandsons, Aaron Hegemier (New Bremen) and Zachary Hegemier (Kettering) also survive. One brother, Roger L. Hegemier (Marilyn) survives in Newark, Ohio, sisters-in-law Janet Smucker (West Liberty) and Mary (Tom) Ellinger (Newark) also survive. Ronald's twin brother, Rodney died as an infant. Also preceding was daughter-in-law Joan (Brad) Hegemier.

He was employed for 35 years with Crown Equipment Corporation where he served as Office Services Manager. Following his retirement, he was self-employed providing transportation services for Crown Equipment Corporation. St. Paul United Church of Christ was Duane's church home during his entire life where he served as deacon and a member of the stewardship board. He was also a member of the American Legion, Woodmen of the World and the New Bremen Senior Citizens where he served as a trustee. His major interest was traveling and along with his family visited 49 of the United States, many European countries as well as numerous Caribbean islands. He was a gentle, loving husband, father and grandfather with a unique sense of humor. Dancing, golf, tennis, swimming, hiking and spending time with family and friends comprised some of his interests.

The family is grateful to the staff of Elmwood Assisted Living of New Bremen and Grand Lake Hospice who lovingly cared for Duane during his stay at Elmwood.

Services will be held at 1:30 PM on Friday, June 1, 2018 at the St. Paul United Church of Christ in New Bremen with Becky Erb-Strang officiating. Inurnment will be at the German Protestant Cemetery.

Friends may call from 12:00-1:30 PM on Friday, June 1, 2018 at the St. Paul United Church of Christ in New Bremen.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Duane F. Hegemier Scholarship Fund at New Bremen High School, St. Paul United Church of Christ Memorial Fund, the New Bremen Emergency Squad or the Grand Lake Hospice Memorial Fund.

Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home in New Bremen has been entrusted with the arrangements, and condolences to the Hegemier family can be left online at www.gilberghartwigfh.com.