Obituaries

Duane Mead Stephens, 92, of Minetto passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, with his loving family by his side.

Born in Hornell, NY, on September 11, 1933, he was the son of the late Sanford Mead and Mildred (Day) Stephens. He was a proud veteran, having served in the US Army.

Duane graduated from the Canisteo School District, where he spent most of his childhood. He earned his Bachelor's Degree at SUNY Brockport while working at Eastman Kodak in Rochester. He went on to earn his Master’s Degree at SUNY Oswego while teaching in Remsen, NY. He had many other jobs including Vice Principal at McGraw High School, Teacher at Greenhaven and Auburn Correctional Facilities, Superintendent at South Lansing School for Girls, and Maintenance at Auburn Memorial Hospital. Duane would also pick up part time jobs including Night Manager at Big M, delivering the Sunday Paper and he also had a Snowplow Route in the winter.

Duane loved the outdoors and enjoyed many activities including camping, boating, waterskiing, snowmobiling and vacationing with his family and close friends. He always found projects to keep him busy which included carpentry and yardwork. He was a tour guide for the H. Lee White Marine Museum on the LT-5 Tug Boat. He enjoyed singing in the Church choir and played the Baritone in the New Horizon’s Band.

Duane is survived by the love of his life of 70 years, Marilyn (Cole) Stephens, and children Alan (Kris) Stephens, Cheryl (the late Edward) Hotchkiss, and Yvonne Stephens (Tracy). He was a proud and loving grandfather to Rebecca (Jonathan), Kelly (Joseph), Jake (Courtney), Jennifer (Brian) and Nicole (Josh), along with 8 great-grandchildren. Duane is also survived by 8 nieces and 4 nephews.

In addition to his parents, Duane is predeceased by sister Julanne S. Willis and many Brother-in-laws and Sister-in-laws.

He will be remembered for his gentle guidance, his love for the outdoors, and the deep values he instilled in those around him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and lives he touched.

Friends and family are invited to call Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 11:00 - 1:00 at Minetto United Methodist Church, 2433 County Rte 8, Oswego with a service to follow at 1:00 pm. Burial will be held in the spring at Mt. Adnah Cemetery. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of Nelson Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the United Methodist Church, Minetto, NY, in memory of Duane M. Stephens.