Duane Jacob Schnur

Duane Jacob Schnur of Caro, age 83, went home to be with his Savior on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 while at Satchell’s Christian Retirement Home. He was born on July 15, 1943 in Caro, the son of the late Jacob and Mary (Paurich) Schnur. He graduated from Caro High School with the Class of 1961 and spent more than thirty years working as a medical attendant at the Caro Center, where he remained until his retirement.

Music was an important part of his life, and he especially enjoyed playing the guitar and accordion. He was talented with both instruments and spent time privately teaching and tutoring others to play as well. In his younger years, Duane also enjoyed riding motorcycles, an interest he shared with many of his high school friends.

As a skilled woodworker, he enjoyed building and finishing projects around his home and yard. He was proficient with a variety of woodworking tools and equipment and took pride in the things he was able to create with his hands.

Another significant part of Duane's life was amateur radio. He spent more than forty years serving in the Navy-Marine Corps branch of the Military Affiliate Radio System (MARS), often dedicating four to eight hours a day when his services were needed. During the Vietnam and Gulf wars, he handled tens of thousands of health and welfare messages between military members and their families, sending and relaying messages through radio teletype.

He completed numerous Navy-supplied and overseen correspondence courses in military radio communication procedures and operations. His years of education, testing, and dedication led him through the Navy radio rankings of Radioman First Class, Chief, Senior Chief and ultimately Master Chief. Over the years, he received numerous Certificates of Commendation from the Navy-Marine Corps. In 1985, he was presented with a prestigious bronze plaque recognizing him as an "Outstanding Member of Region Four," which encompassed thirteen states under the Great Lakes Naval Training Base north of Chicago. He was also a life member of the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and served as a Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC).

Over the years, he had three Dobermans from the same kennel in Pennsylvania. Two made their way to him by plane through the Saginaw Airport, while his last Doberman, Riley, was brought home as a small puppy by his friends, John and Kathy.

Duane was a devoted Star Trek fan who took great joy in collecting movies and memorabilia, proudly embracing his reputation as a true “Trekkie.” He also enjoyed the fellowship and camaraderie he found as a member of the local Moose Lodge.

Duane's life was filled with music, craftsmanship, service, and the things he genuinely enjoyed. His many years devoted to amateur radio allowed him to provide an invaluable connection between members of the military and their loved ones during difficult times, leaving behind a legacy of service to others.

He is survived by his best friend, John Wagner. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his former wife, Marjorie Thayer.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and there are no services planned at this time. Memorial contributions may be directed to Mike Wagner, who will make a donation in Duane’s memory to a charity that was especially meaningful to him.