March 27 2020
Obituary Duane DeRochey, age 66, went home to his Lord and Savior on Friday, March 27, 2020. He passed away peacefully at his apartment, with his wife Lynn by his side. He and Lynn were married just shy of 40 years. Theirs was a remarkable partnership. Twice, they were featured in the Grand Rapids Press for celebrating their life of living independently, overcoming many obstacles together as they battled through cerebral palsy. Duane was preceded in death by his brother Eddie and is survived by his brother Neal; sisters-in-law Isla and Suzanne; brothers-in-law Shawn, Ron, and Al; nieces Ronna, Rochelle, Mandy and Malaina; and nephew Brooks. Duane will be remembered for his gentleness, kindness, determination, gratitude, respectfulness, and hearty laugh. Duane loved the Tigers, Lions, Pistons, and Red Wings. He received many trophies and awards in Special Olympics as a champion racer, and from his many years of bowling. Duane embraced adventure and excitement. He was fearless in venturing out into Lake Michigan, taking dune schooner rides, and pushing his body in weightlifting activities. His most memorable trip was when he and Lynn were able to visit Hawaii and experience the ocean. He was a quiet, strong believer and community builder, enriching the lives of his many special friends at the two churches he attended: Christ Community Church and Eastern Avenue CRC. He also enjoyed delivering meals within his community. Duane was a longtime activist for disabled people who wished to take control over their own lives, and he was a strong leader in confronting the inequalities he witnessed. He urged lawmakers to shift more money to home care. Numerous times, he lobbied for the disabled in Lansing and Washington DC. He was a longtime volunteer at Disability Advocates, where he trained Go Bus drivers. He was a tireless fundraiser and enjoyed teaching others how to live independently. Duane would say to others, “I just feel disabled people get treated unfairly, you have to be involved to change things. I might as well do it.” Duane DeRochey made a difference. A memorial service will be held at a later date. If you feel led to honor Duane and his legacy, contributions can be made to Disability Advocates (3600 Camelot Dr. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546). To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Duane DeRochey, please visit our Tribute Store. Events There are no events scheduled. You can still show your support by planting a tree in memory of Duane DeRochey. Visit the Tribute Store
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Duane DeRochey March 27 2020.
Death notice for the town of: Grand Rapids, state: Michigan