Duane Allen Melcher

Duane Allen Melcher , 77, of Ft. Wayne, IN passed away Saturday, December 23, 2017 at his residence following an extended illness.

He was born on Tuesday, July 2, 1940 in Hoagland, IN the son of the late Carl E. Melcher and the late Erna M. (Aumann) Melcher. Following the death of his mother, his father married Willadine (Kleine) Schroeder-Melcher and she preceded Duane in death also.

Duane was united in marriage to Susan A. Smola on September 28, 1962 at Emmanual Lutheran Church-Soest and she survives.

Duane served his country in the United States Marine Corps., being honorably discharged in 1966.

He was President and Co-Founder of Decatur Wire Die in 1979 where he maintained that role until he retired in 2005. Duane was also a lifelong farmer.

He graduated from Hoagland High School in 1958. He was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church-Soest where he served many positions in the church, including president. He was a member of the Wire Association International.

Duane’s life centered around his church and his family. He loved farming, fishing, and watching his grandchildren’s activities.

Survivors include his wife, Susan A. Melcher of Ft. Wayne, IN, son, Barry (Barb) Melcher of Decatur, IN, daughter, Kimberly (Dan) Frank of Ft. Wayne, IN, son, Brad (Christine) Melcher of Decatur, IN, sister, Leanne (Dale) Busick of Decatur, IN, brother, William "Bill" Melcher of Hoagland, IN, 11 grandchildren, Nichole (Tyler) Sorg, Karl (Alexa) Melcher, Grant Melcher, Duane “Dewey” Melcher, Joseph Melcher, Erica Frank, Tori Frank, Andrew Frank, Marilyn Melcher, Katie Melcher, and Tessa Melcher, 2 ½ great grandchildren, Jaxson Sorg, Elle Sorg, and baby Melcher on the way.

Duane is preceded in death by his brother, Randy Melcher.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 28, 2017 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church-Soest with Rev. Josef Henning officiating. Interment will follow in the Emmanuel Lutheran Cemetery-Soest Ft. Wayne.

Friends will be received from 2-5 and 6-8, Wednesday, December 27 at Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur, and one hour prior to services at church on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, Duane's family has requested memorials be given to either Emmanuel Lutheran Church-Soest or Worship Anew (Worship For Shut-Ins).