Duane Ludean Heller, 89, formerly of Columbia City, died peacefully at 7:40 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at Heritage Pointe in Huntington.

Born on August 5, 1933, in Oxford, Nebraska, he was a son of the late Walter C.F. Heller and Alice (Maaske) Heller. Growing up in Nebraska, the family moved to Ashley, Indiana, where he graduated from Ashley High School in 1951. He continued his education at ITT Technical Institute and Electronics School at the U.S. Naval Station, Treasure Island.

He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on July 10, 1952 and served aboard the USS Prince during the Korean War.  He was honorably discharged on July 5, 1956.

On August 20, 1956, he married Rita Diane King. After his discharge from the Navy, they made their home in Noble County, Indiana, for 25 years, moving to Auburn, where they lived for 15 years. In 2021, the couple moved to Columbia City.

He began his work career with ITT in Fort Wayne as an Electronics Technician Engineer. In 1965, he joined Noble County REMC and became a manager. In 1975, he joined his brother in Heller Well Drilling. In 1985, he went to work for Dexter Axle as a plant engineer retiring in 1995.

Always active, he enjoyed working around the home, growing an annual garden, tending the flower beds, or making repairs. Spending time with the grandkids was a priority. He liked to follow Notre Dame football and Indiana University basketball.

Surviving is his wife of 66 years, Rita; daughters, Terri Cripe of North Liberty, Susan Beaman and Jeanne Heller, both of Columbia City; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and sisters, Nancy Heller of Fort Wayne and Neta Heller of Crystal River, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Donald Heller.

Duane's desire was to have no services. A private family burial will take place at the Fairfield Cemetery near Corunna at a later date.

Memorials in Duane's honor are to the American Heart Association.