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ESCANABA -- Duane "Dewey" Williams, age 77, passed away at UP Health Marquette on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, with his family at his side.
Duane was born on February 19, 1949, in Escanaba, MI, to Daniel and Patricia (Ring) Williams. He graduated from Escanaba High School in 1968 and was drafted by the United States Army serving six years until he was honorably discharged, after proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War.
Upon returning home, Duane followed in his father's footsteps and began working in the logging business. Before long, his independent spirit led him to start his own business, Williams Logging. He later continued working for several logging companies throughout his career. He developed many subdivisions in Lower Michigan. On May 22, 1999, he married Catherine Carlisle in Allegan County, Michigan.
Duane later began a new chapter in his working life with Skerbeck Brothers Shows, where he served as director of maintenance. Dewey and Catherine owned and operated Po's Pizza. He retired in 2019, but retirement did not slow him down for long. He went on to deliver newspapers for the Daily Press.
Duane was especially proud of the home he built in Wells, literally building it from the ground up. He enjoyed going for rides, sharing stories from days gone by, and enjoying his coffee and cigarettes. He was a true hands-on person whose hands were rarely still. Whether he was woodworking, rebuilding vehicles, gardening, or simply tinkering with something, Duane was happiest when he had a project in front of him.
Those who knew Duane will remember his stories, his independent spirit, his hardworking nature, and the simple pleasures he enjoyed in life. He loved his family (especially his grandchildren) and leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife, Catherine; children, Tammy (Brian) Doneau, Tonya (Gordon) Todd, Daymond Williams, Theresa (Bill) Brown, Duaine (Michelle) Williams, Jr., Ortis, Sr., Grace (Roy Jr.) Alltop, and Heather (Edward Fleming, Sr.) Beilby; grandchildren, LaRae, Holly, Courtney, Morgan, Sophia, Andrew, Cassandra, Nicklas, Steven, Hailey, Duaine III, Ortis Jr., Shawn, Vlad, Amera, Hailei, Rhett, Gunner, Odette, Soren, Eros, Zion, Edward Jr., and Roy III; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Donna Pach, Sharon (Jim) Johnson and Susie Williams.
Duane was preceded in death by his son, Gary Johnson Williams; grandson, Nelson Charles Williams; parents, Daniel and Patricia Williams; brothers, Rick, Robert, Carl, Dale, and Dan; and sister, Sally.
American Legion Services will be conducted at 1:30 pm Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the Fernwood Cemetery by the Delta County Veteran's Council and the United States Army National Guard. A celebration of Duane's life and meal will take place later this fall at the Wells Township Hall in Wells, MI. The Anderson Funeral Homes of Escanaba and Gladstone are assisting the Williams family, and online condolences may be shared with the family at andersonfuneralhomes.net.
