A gardener and a giver.
That’s how Ed Duda of Goodrich described his father, Frank, of Ortonville, who died Sunday, Nov. 19, 2006 at Genesys Hospice Care Center. He was 89.
‘He just enjoyed working outside on everything and anything,? Ed said. ‘He loved to share and was free with helping other people. He loved his family and relished family events.?
Duda and his wife of 66 years, Billie, lived in Hazel Park for many years before coming to Ortonville. Once he arrived here, Ed said his father began maintaining an extensive vegetable garden, which he took a lot of pride in.
Among the items Duda grew in his garden were broccoli, rhubarb, beans, strawberries, Indian corn, and gourds (a squash-like vegetable which is used for decoration).
However, gardening was not the only way Duda helped his neighbors, Ed said. ‘He split and sold firewood to people, using campground and woodburning stoves,? he said.
Duda originally came to Detroit from Erie, Pa., and owned and operated The Ten Pin Restaurant in a bowling alley on Chene and Trombley, in Detroit, south of Hamtramack. He and his partner would operate the restaurant for 20 years before it closed.
‘Friday, which was fish day, was a big day for that restaurant, because it was in a Catholic neighborhood,? Ed said.
In addition to Ed, Frank and Billie Duda had three other children: Dori (Bob) Williamson of Ortonville, David (Carol) Duda of Troy, and Danny (who is deceased). The couple also had six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
When asked why his parents were able to stay together as long as they did, Ed said a common love of the outdoors and a strong religious faith helped make the difference.
‘They were always church people ? they believed in holding the family together,? he said.
The Dudas attended Ortonville Baptist Church and the Baptist Church of Hadley during their time in Ortonville, Ed said.
A funeral service took place Saturday, Nov. 25 at the Baptist Church of Hadley, Rev. Bill Rowland officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shepherd’s Home and School, 1805 15th Avenue, Union Grove, Wis. 53182.