Duane Jon Haywood (“Woody”), 73, died unexpectedly Thursday, April 3, at his home in Wayland.
He was born Dec. 22, 1951, to Leon and Esther Haywood and grew up with his siblings in Shelbyville.
Duane held many different jobs, from a mechanic at Smith’s Garage, various positions at Kalamazoo Creamery, and finally maintenance at Country Fresh, before retiring in 2014. He most recently worked at General RV before retiring to expand his egg-selling business
He loved raising various animals over the years, from miniature horses and donkeys, to his beloved English Springer Spaniels, and, of course, his chickens. He was a quiet man who loved the Lord, his family, and his friends.
He is survived by his children Nicole (Karl) Timmer, Meredith (Steve) Hemmeke, and April (Andy) Taylor; grandchildren Megan Fowler, Kati (Ben) Fought, Nate Timmer (fiancée Ella Compagner), Luke, Caleb, and Joshua Hemmeke, Olivia and Emilee Taylor; siblings Karen (John) Elliston, Susan (Terry) Chrisman, Kathy (Mike) Smith, Dale (Brenda) Haywood, Diane (Victor) Northrup; sister-in-law, Joyce Haywood; mother-in-law, Leone Biesbrock; in-laws Vicki (Dan) Pease, W. Mike (Kelli) Biesbrock, Dave (Raven) Biesbrock, Patty (Doug) Hale; many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Melanie Haywood; his parents; father-in-law, Bill Biesbrock; siblings Dawn Haywood, Bobby Haywood, June Brenner, Larry Haywood, Paul Haywood, and Ron Haywood.
Visitation with the family will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 11, at Leighton Church, 4180 2nd St., Caledonia. A memorial service for Duane will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 12, at Leighton Church, with visitation from 2 to 2:45 p.m. prior to the service.
In memory of Duane and in lieu of flowers, donations may given in his memory to the Leighton Church – Mission Fund.
