Robert Duane Plymale, age 77, of Jackson, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at home on his family farm. He was born Nov. 11, 1943 in Huntington, West Virginia to the late Dwight and Ruth Plymale.
He did his undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University and received a master’s degree in Animal Science and Nutrition from the University of Tennessee. Duane worked for 35 years as a 4-H Youth Extension Specialist for the Ohio State University. He mentored thousands of children, youth, and adult volunteers over his decades of employment. His influence on youth leadership and the 4-H program in Ohio cannot be quantified.
Duane was an avid hunter and fisherman. As a teenager, he eagerly awaited the end of the school day at Vinson High School in Huntington, West Virginia to grab his rod and reel and head to his favorite fishing hole. If you knew Duane, you also knew how much he loved college sports. He enthusiastically cheered for his favorite teams, BYU and Ohio State, and encouraged others to cheer for them, too.
Duane was also a devoted member of his Church and had a firm testimony in the love of the Savior Jesus Christ. He served as Branch President (Pastor) for many years and held several other leadership callings in the Church. Duane loved developing and improving his Angus cattle and worked tirelessly to establish a top-notch and nationally respected, Angus herd. He loved helping both new and established farmers to grow their own herds, and many of the genetic lines he cultivated are prevalent in herds around the country. He was always thrilled to share his experience and deep knowledge with anyone who wanted to talk cattle and appreciated help with the farming operation from family and friends, including long-time family friend, Lisa Barnett.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Sandy; his brother, Dwight Lee (Kristien) of Florida; and his three sons, George (Kati) of Jackson, OH, Jake (Elisa) of North Carolina, and Rob (Emily) of Colorado. He was a loving grandfather to his 12 grandchildren: Georgie, Joshua, Jonathan, Jaelene, Emery, Allie, Ty, Perry, Reagan, Henry, Collins, and Juneau. He loved spending time with his family in church service and with his cattle!
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 10, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of Jackson. Funeral services will immediately follow at 12 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery. Per CDC and governor guidelines, everyone is to wear a mask and practice proper social distancing. Online condolences may be sent to www.lewisgillum.com