Duane I Giles, 84, of Poyntelle, PA, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 12, 2019 at home after an illness.
Duane was born to Ralph and Helen Giles on August 17, 1935 in Johnson City, New York. The family came to the farm in Poyntelle when he was three years old. He attended school in Poyntelle until the building burned in 1944, and then finished his education in Lakewood. Duane served in the U.S. Army from August 1954 to August 1956. In 1957 he began a career as a herd technician lasting almost 60 years, working for Curtiss Breeding service, Sire Power, and Select Sire Power. The National Association of Animal Breeders awarded him for devoted service in livestock improvement and for servicing over 100,00 animals. For many years he pastored the Northern Wayne Christian Fellowship and worked with youth groups in the area. He was a life member of the NRA.
In 1968 he married Carole Kleffmann and they celebrated their fiftieth anniversary last December. He is also survived by son, Nathan, daughter-in-law, Katja, and grandsons Tristan and Thomas. He is survived by a brother; Gordon, sister-in-law; Mary, and two sisters; Judy Slifko, and Sandra Lapoint, and nine nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers-in- law, Mike Slifko and Gerald Lapoint.
Duane enjoyed being in the outdoors hunting, fishing, gardening, cutting wood and watching birds. There was always a special dog in his life. He was an extensive reader and loved John Wayne movies. His sense of humor was evident as he interacted with people around him and he was always there for anyone in the community who had a need. His extensive knowledge of the history of the area was gladly shared. His first priority was his family always available to share his faith, to provide unconditional love, and to involve family members in his love of the outdoors.
Membership in American Legion Post 209 meant a great deal to Duane. For 33 years he served as chaplain and he served as master of ceremonies for years at the annual Memorial Day observance in Lakewood. Marching with Legion members in local parades emphasized his support for the military and love for this country.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Henderson- Biedekapp Funeral Home 29, E. Main St., Hancock, NY as follows: Viewing from 2 to 5 pm on Monday, September 16th. Viewing from 9 to 10am Tuesday, September 17th followed by funeral service at 10am and burial in the Wheeler Hill Cemetery in Pleasant Mount. Pa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to one of the following groups: Special Olympics 1133 19th St., NW, 12th floor, Washington, DC 20036-3604. Navajo Ministries 2103 W. Main St., Farmington, NM 87401. Northern Wayne Christian Fellowship, PO Box 12 , Poyntelle, Pa 18454
Arrangements by Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock.
SERVICES
Calling Hours
Monday, September 16, 2019
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel
29 EAST MAIN STREET
HANCOCK, New York 13783
Calling Hours
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel
29 EAST MAIN STREET
HANCOCK, New York 13783
Funeral Service
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
10:00 AM
Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel
29 EAST MAIN STREET
HANCOCK, New York 13783