Duane Haines

Duane Haines, age 84, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on May 10, 2026, on Mother’s Day.

Duane was born on January 23, 1942, to Clifford Haines and Rachel Haines (née Robers). He was a proud veteran, dedicated public servant, hardworking provider, and above all else, a deeply devoted family man whose love and presence shaped the lives of everyone around him.

Duane honorably served his country before going on to spend many years serving his community as an EMT with the Hamburg Township Fire Department. He was the kind of person who naturally helped others, whether through his work, his friendships, or simply lending a hand to anyone in need. In addition to his years in emergency services, Duane also spent many years working for General Motors until his retirement, providing for his family through hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

On June 20, 1964, Duane married the love of his life, Barbara Haines. Together they built a beautiful marriage rooted in loyalty, laughter, unconditional love, and unwavering devotion to one another. Over the years they traveled together to nearly every state in the country, creating countless memories and adventures side by side.

Duane was known for his intelligence, humor, independence, and endless curiosity. He loved tinkering with things and taking them apart just to understand how they worked. Family and friends knew him well for his famous “15-minute jobs” that somehow always became all-day projects. He had a song lyric for nearly every situation and could always find a way to make people laugh. His love for Diet Pepsi was legendary among those who knew him best.

He was also one of the smartest men many of us ever knew. Even in his later years, he could often be found sitting in his recliner reading and learning. He was the salutatorian of his graduating class and jokingly liked to say the only reason he was not valedictorian was because he spent too much time helping the valedictorian with her homework and tests.

Above all else, Duane treasured his family. He was a loving father, devoted grandfather, and proud great-grandfather. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with the people he loved. He showed unconditional love, kindness, patience, and generosity throughout his life, and those lessons will continue to live on through his family for generations to come.

He is survived by his son, David Haines; granddaughter, Shannon (Amier) Hill; and four great-grandchildren, Kayden, Ka’Myla, Kingston, and Kartier. He is also survived by his brothers, Terry (Debbie) Haines of Kalamazoo and Brian Haines of Pinckney, along with many extended family members and lifelong friends.

Duane was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Haines; his parents, Clifford and Rachel Haines; and his younger brother, Ronald Haines.

Those who knew Duane will remember his quick wit, kind heart, stubborn independence, intelligence, and the unconditional love he showed to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories, lessons, laughter, and love he gave so freely will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Duane’s family and friends will gather, Saturday, June 6th, at 2:00PM, at Arise Church, 11211 Dexter-Pinckney Rd, Pinckney, MI. Memorial Contributions are suggested to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Please leave a message of comfort for Duane’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.