DUANE E. CASTOR
Class of 1945
Volunteerism
Immediately after graduation, Duane began active duty in the Navy during World War II. He served in the South Pacific Theater of Operations. Duane was Post-Master of Covert for 30 years. He helped organize the Van Buren County Civil Defense. Duane also organized a Veterans group in Covert, which was the "Firing Squad" at the Memorial Day programs for many years. He served on the Covert Fire and Ambulance Service, he organized Boy Scout and served as Scout Master for 15 years. Duane and his wife Connie, were part of the group that helped establish the Covert Alumni Association and organized the "Hits and Mrs." Square Dance Club.
Duane began service on the Van Buren Youth Fair Board in 1966, where he was President for eight years. During 25 years of service, he held positions of Manager, Co-Manager, and Treasurer. Duane was named Executive Director of the Covert Public Housing. He was appointed by the Covert Township Board to the South Haven Regional Airport Authority where he served as President of the authority and ultimately became Airport Manager. Under Duane's leadership, the airport authority experienced tremendous growth. The Airport budget grew from $5,000.00 to 1.5 million dollars in 5 years. The landing strip was lengthened to 4300 feet to accommodate larger planes, a new hanger with space for ten to twelve planes, and a new terminal was built. He spent many hours there and was proud of the new facilities.
In 1951, Duane married Constance Brimhall Castor (class of 1951). They had three daughters-Colleen, Lauren, and Christine.
Duane had no greater joy than his family and to be of service to the community. He passed away May 14, 1996.