Ernest Duane Groves

Known for his strong work ethic and his kind hearted ways, Ernest “Duane” Groves was simply a great guy to know. He never took one day for granted and treasured the loved ones in his life. Duane was forever grateful for a second chance with his soul mate with whom he shared the best years of his life. With his great sense of humor, Duane could find the joy in each new day and loved sharing his insatiable zest for life with those around him. A man of great strength and determination, Duane was victorious in his fight against cancer for a time, but in the end his body could not overcome that war that raged against it. Life will never be the same for the family and friends who loved Duane, but they will forever consider themselves blessed to have been touched by such a remarkable man.

The year 1932 was one of the most difficult years of the Great Depression that held our nation firmly in its grip throughout the entire decade. The economy continued to deteriorate and the unemployment rate increased further to just over 24 percent. There were few jobs and many ordinary Americans were forced into living in the streets or in old cars. Towards the end of the year, the American voter used the power of democracy to elect Franklin D. Roosevelt in hopes of reprieve from the trying times. Amidst these times of great trial, Ernest and Hazel (Bigelow) Groves were able to shift their focus to a joyous occasion in their own family with the birth of their son, Ernest Duane, on April 11th. Born in Clinton County, Michigan, Duane was one of seven children in his family including his sisters Venus, Mable, Laura, Hazel, and Cora, and his brother, Frank. When Duane was a young boy, his father was tragically killed in a car accident and as a result, Duane went to work at an early age in order to help support his family. He attended St. Johns schools.

It was during his formative years that many of the traits that Duane carried with him throughout his entire lifetime were established. He was soft spoken and quiet and someone who never argued with anyone. Not only was Duane a hard worker, but he was also one who always kept busy. He developed a love for the outdoors, enjoying both hunting and fishing, and he also had both a motorcycle and a snowmobile. One of the great things about Duane was the way he always thought of others. He was a loyal friend who often hung around with Danny Price and his younger brother, Frank, as well. Duane was also gifted with a great sense of humor that often carried him through the storms of life.

After completing the eighth grade, Duane went to work for Hiller’s Farm on Scott Road where he remained for 25 years. It was there that the met the love of his life. Her name was Marlene, and she was still in high school at the time. The couple dated for a short time and in doing so, wrote the first chapter in a love story that wouldn’t be continued until much later in Duane’s life.

When he left his work on the farm, Duane went to work for Diamond REO in Lansing although he changed jobs twice more over the years that followed. From Diamond REO, Duane went to work driving a cement truck for Randolph’s. His last job was as a custodian in the local schools for 15 years before he officially retired.

Life took a fateful turn for Duane when he became reacquainted with Marlene with whom he had lost contact for several years. It was in 1974 when their paths crossed again while Duane was playing cards. They were delighted to get to know one another again, a real blast from the past to be sure. The couple liked to go Coho Salmon fishing at the Tippy Dam or at times, out dancing. Determined not to lose his beloved Marlene a second time, Duane asked her to marry him, and she was more than happy to oblige. They married at the Lutheran church in St. Johns on August 30, 1975, and enjoyed a honeymoon in Kalkaska. Duane treasured spending time not only with his wife, but also with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as his family was his greatest treasure.

When he had some time off Duane often pursued some of his interests. Those who knew Duane knew he loved his recliner and that it was usually reserved just for him. He was a huge fan of westerns, and he also loved watching the Detroit Lions – a loyal fan through and through. Duane was a member of St. Johns Lutheran Church and of the Moose Lodge in Harrison.

With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Ernest Duane Groves was such a special man to many. He appreciated each and every moment and made the most of the days he was given, especially while he was in remission until just this past March. Duane leaves behind lessons in strength, kindness, and goodwill that live on in the hearts and lives of those who will hold his memory dear.

Ernest Duane Groves died Monday, November 8, 2010. Duane’s family includes his wife, Marlene; sons, Kenneth (Maggie) Matice of Ovid, David (Dee) Matice of Pewamo; daughter, Gail Brooks of Eaton Rapids; sisters, Mable Mudget, Laura Anderson, Hazel (Keith) Munger, Cora Price; sister-in-law Gloria Groves; six grandchildren; ten great- grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Duane was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Frank and Arthur, and sister Venus. Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 12, 2010, at the St. Johns Lutheran Church, with Pastor George Brinley officiating, burial at Mt. Rest Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Osgood Funeral Home on Wednesday, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or photo, sign the online guestbook, or make a memorial contribution to family wishes.