Duane E. Wolfe


Duane E. Wolfe, age 82, of Charlotte passed away Sunday, May 3, 2020, at Golden Days AFC with his family by his side. He was born August 10, 1937 in Kellersburg, Penn., the son of Donald and Hilda (Hetrick) Wolfe. Duane graduated from Red Bank Valley High School in Pennsylvania. Duane was a tremendous husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. He was a hard worker his entire life. Duane began working at the age of seven while his father was away serving in WWII. Duane wore many different hats during his life. He was a farmer, accountant, grave digger and union steward. Duane worked over 33 years at Owens-Illinois, first in Pennsylvania and then transferred to Charlotte. He was a huge proponent of buying glass and never plastic products. After his retirement, he went to work at Adessa Auto Auction. He worked there for over 20 years until he experienced a stroke earlier this year. Duane was a very good listener and was never quick to offer advice; although if you asked him what he thought he would not hold back. Duane had a passion for Oldsmobile cars. In his mind there was no other car worth driving. He was a “made in America” type of man. He tried to support his country in any way possible and did not like imported goods. Duane enjoyed all sports but was especially fond of the Detroit Tigers, Pittsburg Steelers and Penn State University. He also enjoyed taking vacations, camping, flea markets, antiques and attending auctions. The family would like to especially thank the staff at Golden Days AFC for the loving care they provided Duane during his time there.

Duane is survived by the love of his life, Mary; children: Judy (Richard) Parish of Eaton Rapids, Joyce (Rocky) Good of Kentwood, Daniel Wolfe of Nashville, Brenda (Steve Palacios) Swanson of Charlotte, Blane (Deb) White of Vermontville, Jackie (Jim Shattuck) of Fowlerville, Judi (David) Lemon of Potterville; 19 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Deborah Vega; grandson, Ryan Lopez; and brother, Malcolm Wolfe.

A private funeral service was held. Interment took place at Gresham Cemetery. Those desiring, may make contributions in Duane’s honor to the charity of one’s choice. To view Duane’s obituary online, or to leave a condolence for the family, visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.