Duane R. Basinger, 75, of rural Albion, went to be with the Lord at 6:22 p.m. Friday, November 6, 2020. He had been a patient at Parkview Regional Medical Center for the past several weeks.

He was born on February 20, 1945, in Bluffton, Ohio, a son of the late Weldon R. and Velma (Burkholder) Basinger. Growing up in Pandora, Ohio, he graduated from Pandora-Gilboa High School in 1963. Continuing his education, he attended Bailey Technical School in St. Louis, MO, where he learned auto repair.

On December 3, 1965, he was united in marriage to Beverly Jane Grismore. The couple made their first home in Fort Wayne, later moving to South Whitley. For the past 14 years, they have made their home in rural Albion.

In 1965, Duane went to work for International Harvester, Fort Wayne. He worked in assembly and was later moved to the engineering department. After IH closed in Fort Wayne, he joined Dana Corporation, Fort Wayne, and later Michigan, where he worked in the technical lab retiring in 2007. He also served with the Ohio National Guard.

A skilled metal worker, he could build almost anything. He used his skills around his home, improving the property, building equipment for his hunting trips, or repairing the vehicles. An avid hunter and outdoorsman, he made many hunting trips to the western states and loved the Rocky Mountain. In his younger years, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle and always liked horseback riding.

A life-long Christian, he attended the Oak Grove Church of God, where he was an active elder. Strong in his faith, he loved his wife and family unconditionally.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Beverly; four children, Jeffrey Basinger of LaOtto, Gary (Leslie) Basinger of Churubusco, Dennis Basinger of Albion and Stephanie (Jon) Albright of North Manchester; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and three brothers, Paul Basinger of Dayton, OH, Daniel (Cindy) Basinger and David (Lora) Basinger both of Bluffton, OH.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a brother, Marvin Basinger.

Due to COVID-19, a drive-through visitation will be held at the Oak Grove Church of God, 2426 South Raber Road, Columbia City, from noon until 2 p.m. on Wednesday. Friends are asked to remain in their vehicles. A private burial will take place at the Oak Grove Cemetery.  Arrangement entrusted to Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Preferred memorials are to the Oak Grove Church of God.