Duane Frederick Marquardt, age 77, of Deckerville, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026 surrounded by his family.
Duane was born on June 23, 1948 in Harbor Beach to Fred and Irene (Schneider) Marquardt. He grew up on the family farm near Applegate, MI and graduated from Cros-Lex High School in 1966. He was a handful from the beginning, frequently outrunning the police with his buddies and causing headaches for his family. Legend has it that he strutted into his childhood home after getting kicked out early of his senior class trip wearing a big cowboy hat with a pin on it proudly proclaiming "Born to Raise Hell."
Following school, Duane worked road construction prior to learning the trade of plumbing and heating. For the majority of his life, Duane was self-employed and serviced most of Sanilac County. It was widely known that if you wanted the job done right, it was best to call "Squirrel."
On February 8, 1969, Duane married Barbara Caswell in Port Sanilac, MI. They made their home and raised their family around the Forester area. He was an avid admirer of all things tools and was not satisfied owning even at least 6 of the same tool. Trains, traveling the state, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Matlock, cats, and Cocoa Pebbles were also favorite activities of his. For the past 10 years, he and Barb would winter in Bradenton, FL and he enjoyed hosting family and friends staying with them.
Duane was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law, Dale Gabara, Kevin Martin, and Ronald Hooper. He is survived by his wife of almost 57 years, Barb; sons, Derek (Laurie) and Brent (Lori); sisters, Judi Martin and Sheryl (Gabara) Hooper; grandchildren, Claire, Drew, and Allie Marquardt, and Jamie, Josh, and Jacob Wright; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will precede burial at Pomeroy Funeral Home, Carsonville, MI on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 from 2-8 PM and beginning at 10 AM prior to the service on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 11 AM. Burial will be at Downing Cemetery in Deckerville.
In lieu of flowers, Duane would encourage everyone to enjoy a drink at "Beer:30" in the afternoon with your loved ones. Otherwise, donations may be made in Duane's name to an organization of your choice.
AMF Grandpa Squirrel; may you fly high…we will miss you.
