Duane Paul Shipman

October 20, 1949 - February 3, 2019

Duane Paul Shipman, 69, of Vermontville, MI, passed away Sunday, February 3, 2019 at his home. Duane was born October 20, 1949, in Hastings, MI, the son of Paul Eli and R. Louise (Dow) Shipman. After graduating high school, Duane started his career at General Motors while attending college. After two years, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving 4 years, partly as a member of the Marine fast-pitch softball team. Upon his return, he soon met the love of his life, Donna Lee Turpin. The two married on September 18, 1976 and settled into family life, raising three children. Duane retired from GM in 2002, after 35 years of service. In his retirement, he shared his lifetime love of hunting, fishing and sports with his family and friends, especially his four grandchildren. Duane is survived by his wife of 42 years, Donna Shipman; daughter, Heather (Jaime) Rittenhouse; sons, Daniel Shipman and Stephen Shipman; grandchildren, Cameron, Tyler, Matthew, and Kaitlyn; and his brother, Mark (Kim) Shipman. He is predeceased by his parents; and his siblings, Linda Burt and Gary Shipman. Friends are encouraged to support Duane's family at visitation and funeral services. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 8, 2019 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation will be from 1-3:00 PM and 6-8:00 PM with a Rosary Service at 5:30 PM on Thursday, February 7, 2019 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Heart Association or VFW Post 2406. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Duane on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.