Robert Wayne Duffel

Robert “Sonny” Wayne Duffel, 82, of Niles, Michigan, formerly of Berrien Springs, MI. went home to be with Jesus on December 11, 2025 in South Bend, Indiana.

Sonny was born in Searcy, Arkansas on June 10, 1943 to the late Robert and Estelle (Wilson) Duffel. He grew up in Searcy, AR where he met Dathel Louise Baker, the love of his life and were married on January 12, 1961. They started their family and in 1968, moved to Michigan and raised five children.

Sonny worked at Buchanan Steel, the former Cold Storage in Berrien Springs, Frank Farms in Berrien Center and ultimately retired from Crowe LLC (formerly Crowe-Chizek, LLC) in South Bend, Indiana after 23 years as security.

Sonny overcame many adversities in his youth that instilled a strong work ethic. After completing the 4th grade, he worked in the cotton fields of Arkansas to earn money for his family to survive after the passing of his father. He always felt like he was running the race of life against the wind. In his young adult years, grit and determination were fundamental stepping stones that compelled him to build a better tomorrow and raise his own family. He was a member of the Berrien Springs Jaycees and carried the nickname “Catfish” as pitcher on the slow-pitch softball team. He also coached Berrien Springs Pee Wee League baseball and football.

Sonny’s main hobby was his lawn. He took great pride in its pristine appearance of the rich deep green color, perfect stripes and no weeds. During the fall, leaves were his enemy!

He loved to laugh and found many opportunities for humor in life. This is a characteristic he instilled in his children along with a strong work ethic. He was quick witted with keen common sense learned through the hard-knocks of life. Sonny loved wood working and was creative in his ability to make whatever he envisioned. He especially enjoyed making wooden benches for his grandchildren. He was never late to an appointment, event or family gathering. He was the first to arrive and first to leave. His favorite K9 companion Buttercup found great comfort and love in his embrace.

Sonny is survived by his children Angela (William) Shembarger of Niles, MI; Sheila Engler of Palestine, TX; Bryan Duffel of Buchanan, MI; Tina (Terry) Woods of South Bend, IN; and Lanny (Denise) Duffel of Berrien Springs, MI. Nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren and two sisters Carolyn and Phyllis. He is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years Dathel Duffel, his parents Robert and Estelle Duffel, his brother Jim Duffle and sister Martha.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Rosehill Cemetery in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Arrangements have been entrusted to Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs, Michigan.