Duane A. Warner

Duane A. Warner, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away at his home on November 4, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on April 14, 1939, in Liberty Center, Ohio, Duane lived a life defined by hard work, integrity, and unwavering faith in God. 

Duane had a distinguished career, retiring after 37 years from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, where he made significant contributions to the Department of Defense as an aeronautical engineer. His educational journey was marked by a bachelor’s and master’s degree in physics from The Ohio State University, where he excelled academically and played football during the storied Woody Hayes era, earning his Varsity O in 1960. He was later awarded a doctorate in physics from the University of Michigan, reflecting his passion for knowledge and his detail-oriented nature. 

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Duane was a member of Christ Church United Methodist in Kettering, OH for nearly 60 years, where he actively engaged in the church’s musical programs, performing with the handbell choir and singing with the church choir. He was also a member of Cincinnati’s premier handbell ensemble, Queen City Bronze. Known for his meticulous yardwork and his signature red socks, Duane exemplified a keen intellect and an eye for detail, that served him well in both his career and personal pursuits.

Duane's expertise included baking delicious cinnamon rolls and making homemade ice cream, which he lovingly shared with family and friends. He was an avid reader, enjoying science fiction novels and crime stories, and he shared his passion for sportsmanship and teamwork by supporting his children and grandchildren in their various sports endeavors. Many cherished summers were spent camping in Petoskey, Michigan, with his wife, Celesta, and in fellowship with their close-knit village of friends, making memories that spanned decades. 

Duane is survived by his daughters, Wendy (Doug) Ransom, Lori Warner, and Erin (Ben) Pryor; his grandsons, Gavin Pryor, Emory Pryor, Graeme Warner-McGee, and Grayson Warner-McGee; and his siblings, Mildred Schildkamp and Linda Bischof. He is also remembered fondly by his granddogs, Monkey, Timber, and London, along with many other extended family members and friends who will carry forward his legacy of love, dedication, and faith. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Celesta; his sister, Deanna Reinman; and his parents, Hildred and Rheumilla Warner. Duane A. Warner's legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

In honor of Duane’s enduring legacy of faith and his passion for music, memorial donations may be made to the Queen City Bronze Handbell Ensemble https://www.queencitybronze.org/donate/ or the Christ Church United Methodist Music Program https://www.shelbygiving.com/App/Form/0443159c-2a40-4c67-a22b-31b0dd2b1b30 Contributions to these organizations will help sustain the music he loved and the faith community he cherished for nearly six decades.

A gathering with family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at Christ Church United Methodist, 3440 Shroyer Rd in Kettering. Memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church.

To share a memory of Duane or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.