Duane Arnold Carey

Duane Arnold Carey, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, in Charlotte, with his loved ones around him. He was 90 years old. Born on April 19, 1936, in Potterville, Michigan, to Omer and Doris (Mulhollan) Carey, Duane grew up in the area and graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1954. He later joined the United States Army and served his country honorably.

On June 24, 1972, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Johnson. Together they shared 54 years of marriage, building a life marked by devotion, companionship, and many happy memories.

Duane built a long career working for numerous grocery stores across Michigan as a produce manager. He was known for his meticulous produce displays and took great pride in his work. His talent for arranging fruits and vegetables beautifully earned him many competition wins over the years. Those who knew him understood how much care and attention he brought to even the everyday parts of life.

Duane was a fun-loving man who enjoyed being with family and making people laugh. He loved to play games, especially poker and Battleship, and family members will long remember the spirited rounds he played. Rumor had it that he may or may not have been caught cheating a few times on his way to winning yet another game, a memory that will continue to bring smiles to those who loved him!

He also enjoyed many simple pleasures that made life sweet. Duane and Carolyn spent winters in warm, sunny Lakeland, Florida. He loved fishing, was an avid golfer, and a longtime member of the Country Club in Charlotte. He also had a special fondness for dessert after meals. His favorites were his cookies and tart cherry pie, and the tarter the better.

Duane will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his playful nature, and the love he shared so freely with those around him. He will be deeply missed by his many loved ones left behind.

He is survived by his loving wife Carolyn; his children, Carol Fish, Lori Koch, Andrew (Sheryl) Koch, Dawn Koch-Orford; grandchildren, Seth Fish, Kaylee Fish, Jamie (Kraig) Lincoln, Jacob (Carrie) Hope, Christina (Fady) Avades, Andew (Melody) Koch, Matthew Orford; eleven great grandchildren; his brother, Dean Carey; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his five sisters, Dorene, Sue, Patricia, Fonda, and Adeline "Babe".

Those desiring may make contributions in Duane’s memory to Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services, 530 Beech Street, Charlotte, MI 48813.

A burial will take place at Lakeview Cemetery in Nashville on September 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM.

To view Duane’s obituary online or to leave condolences for his family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.