Duane "Dewey" Victor VanHouten

Duane "Dewey" VanHouten, age 79 of Sunbury passed away Thursday, October 12, 2023, at Danbury of Westerville. He was born on February 14, 1944, to the late Russell E. and Ilo E. (Howard) VanHouten.

Duane was a 1962 graduate of Cardington-Lincoln High School. He served in the United States Air Force from 1962-1966. He was employed with the Marion Power Shovel Company/Dresser Industries and Honda of America.

He was a member of the Waldo Sportsmen Club and American Legion Post 0162. He actively participated in golf and bowling leagues.

He took the utmost pride in his lawn and garden. No weed was left unturned, and no yard could rival his in the neighborhood. He enjoyed so many years in his rowboat with his animal and human friends and family. He was always there for his neighbors, friends, and family when they needed a helping hand. He never met a stranger. No matter who they were, the man could hold a conversation and was quick with a one liner.

Above all, he was a family man. He loved his wife of 55 years more than words can express. To this day his eyes would light up when saw her or spoke about her. He loved his girls to the ends of the Earth and passed on so much to them over the years. His love for all three of his "girls" is immeasurable.

On August 3, 1968, he married Cheryl in Cardington, Ohio, she survives in Sunbury.

In addition to his wife, Duane is survived by his daughters Heather (Rob) Kritter of Gahanna and Mindy (Bruce) Bilyeu of Galena. "Papa" is the very proud Grandfather of four loving and ornery grandsons, which is a trait they inherited from him; Jake (17), Max (13), Luke (9), and Rowan (5). They were the apple of his eye and the sunshine of his life.

Oh how he enjoyed sharing his love for the outdoors with his boys. The rides on the lawnmower, teaching them each bird's song, pushing them for endless hours on the swing and many sled rides in the winter.

In addition to his parents, Duane was preceded in death by his brother Howard VanHouten and his sister Ruth Brokaw.

Friends may call on Friday, October 20, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Gompf Funeral Home, 440 Center Street in Cardington. The funeral service will directly follow at 12:00 PM. Following the service, the burial will take place in the Marion Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider his church, The Church of the Messiah, 51 N. State Street, Westerville, Ohio 43081.

Gompf Funeral Service of Cardington is honored to have been chosen to assist the VanHouten family with Duane's final wishes and condolences may be expressed at www.gompffh.com.