Duane M. Stern

October 8, 1947 – July 27, 2025

Duane M. Stern, Arcadia, born on October 8, 1947, in Noblesville, was called home on July 27, 2025. A humble and dedicated man, Duane lived a life rich in love, loyalty, and accomplishment. He was an embodiment of the verse from the book of Proverbs 22:29, “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.” His dedication to his work, his family, and his faith were the pillars that defined his life.

Duane was a talented and skilled individual. After earning his Bachelor’s in Agriculture at Purdue, he served as a histologist at Memorial Hospital in Logansport for 26 years. Subsequently, he found his calling in the auto manufacturing industry and retired as a journeyman from Chrysler Corp. An avid bass angler, Duane was a proud member of the Logansport Bass Hustlers Fishing Club. These accomplishments, however, only scratch the surface of the man Duane was. A quiet man with a deep interest in science, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life, like reading a good book. Above all, Duane was a loving family man. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he was the bedrock on which they built their lives.

Duane leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Waltz-Stern; his children, Zachary Stern and Jennifer (Mark) Lawson; his grandchildren, Kaleb Stern, Klara Stern, Matthew Lawson, Hayley Lawson, and Hannah Lawson; his great-grandchildren, Ronin Stern and Marlow Stern; his siblings, Lucy (Scott) Smith, Diana (Eldon) Heiss, Sam Stern, Kenneth (Ellen) Stern, Bonnie (Jim) O’Neil, and Rex (Sue) Stern; and several nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mark Stern and Florence Foulton; his brother, Dale Stern; and his late wife, MaBeth Stern.

Duane’s life will be honored at a visitation from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, August 2, 2025, followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. with Pastor Rob Roloff officiating. Both will be held at Hartley-Dunnichay Funeral Home, 209 W. Jackson St., Cicero.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Emanuel Lutheran Church, 1385 S. Main St., Tipton, IN 46072; or the Lewy Body Dementia Association at lbda.org/donate.

Duane’s family finds comfort in the words from the book of Revelation 21:4, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

As we remember Duane, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a man greatly loved. We invite you to share your memories of Duane and upload photographs to his memorial page, honoring his life and the love he shared with us all.

Condolences: hartleyfuneralhomes.com