Robert Duane Duell

Robert lived his life dedicated to serving his country, community, and family.

He was born August 27 1927 in Hastings, Michigan to the late Hollis and Pauline (Gazella) Duell.

Robert had a full career.

He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in June of 1945, where he was discharged from active duty in 1952.  In 1956 he joined the Michigan State Police, where he served at numerous posts throughout his career with his last post being post 51 in Paw Paw.  It was also in 1956 that he re-enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. In total, Robert served over 36 years in the Marine Corps/Marine Corps Reserves retiring on August 27, 1987 with the rank of Sergeant Major and he served 26 years with the Michigan State Police retiring on July 4, 1982 with the rank of Sergeant. It was during his first enlistment in the United States Marine Corps that he met the love of his life,  Cathleen Joyce Brockman.  The couple celebrated a military wedding on August 5, 1950. They recently celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary.

After retirement, Robert enjoyed many things.  Spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and adding to his many collections were some of his favorite past times.  He also enjoyed feeding the neighborhood wildlife (Squirrels, birds with the occasional raccoon, opossum, and duck families).  Robert also volunteered his time to Toys for Tots and assisted with getting patients at the VA hospital in Battle Creek needed personal items.  Robert was an active member of the Marine Corps League (Kalamazoo Post),  American Legion (Paw Paw post),  Knights of Columbus and a longtime parishioner of the St. Mary Catholic church.

Robert is survived by his wife Cathleen Joyce; Three daughters: Debra Harvey, Doris Duell, Denise (Steve) Hopkins; Three sons: Jon Duell,  James Duell, and Mark (Kimberly) Duell; Five grandchildren: Nicholas Duell, Chase (Rachel Perkins) Duell, Caitlin Hopkins, Madison Duell and Meghan Duell.

Robert was preceded in death by his two brothers: Hollis and Jerry Duell and two sisters: Ora Navene Duell and Maxine Page.

Family and friends will visit Thursday, October 14, 2021 from 4-8 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw. There will be a funeral service with military honors held Friday, October 15, at 11:00 a.m.  at the funeral home with Fr. Richard Altine officiating.  Cremation to follow.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association, Hospice, or Tunnels to Towers by visiting the links at the bottom of this page.