Donald Gene Duncan

Donald G. Duncan (Don) was born on June 21, 1946, and was granted his wings on March 6, 2021. He was welcomed into heaven by his father William and mother Margaret, along with his daughter Susan Duncan, his grandparents, and many aunts and uncles who he loved dearly. He is survived by his beloved son Aaron and wife Kerry Mitchell. His siblings, twin brother Ron and wife Kathy, brother Bob, brother Jodi, and wife Rosanne, sister Pam Pieters and husband Jim as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who he loved and treasured with all of his heart.

Don grew up in Texas, South Dakota, and Colorado. He was an adventurous child who along with his twin brother at his side found a world full of mischief that laid waiting at their feet. At the age of just six years old, their grandfather made the error of leaving them inside his idling dump truck. While they were both too small to drive this truck, they knew that as a team there was nothing they couldn’t overcome. One took control of the pedals and shifter; the other stood on the seat to steer and look for trouble. The boys headed home via a diagonal walking trail they were very accustomed to. Just four years later, the duo managed to set ablaze a haystack that was adjacent to the barn that sat on their grandparent's ranch. Fortunately, the barn was saved, but I’m guessing that their backsides were not. Don and Ron were a team, a handful, and their bond never diminished.

In 1964, Don enlisted in the Navy to serve his country. During the duration of his enlistment, he bravely served his country which included doing two tours in Vietnam. Don never spoke much of his service, or his tours, but it is clear that these experiences had an impact on the quality of his life. Professionally, Don worked at Rocky Flats, The Federal Center in Colorado in the USGS department, and at the Veterans Administration where he assisted veterans with their health benefits.

Don was the ultimate dreamer. Throughout his life, he shared his dreams with his family who often stood in wonder as he made them come true. Whether scuba diving, moving to Phoenix, or ultimately retiring in Henderson, Nevada, somehow, through sheer determination, he found a way to “make it all happen.” It remains unclear whether he was able to achieve all of this through obstinance, confidence, or just the sheer pleasure of showing others what he could do.

Don’s passion was his family. He loved to “get together,” to tease, to laugh, to share stories, and most of all to give gifts. He was ferociously protective of his family. His sister will tell you that she knows first-hand that Don would defuse a bomb to save her life. And if he only had a dime in his pocket and his family needed a quarter, he would get them a quarter. His family agrees that he is likely the most generous and loyal person that any of them will ever know.

Don would tell you that the biggest accomplishment in life was his children. His daughter meant the world to him and though they didn’t always see eye-to-eye, he cherished the time he had with her. There are no words to describe the pride that he had for his son. As Aaron put himself through college and achieved one degree after another, Don would swell with tremendous pride. When Aaron earned a Ph.D., he gifted a hardbound copy of his dissertation to his father. While Don had no use for earthly treasures, he coveted this gift. He literally kept it on display in a glass case. He was incredibly proud of his son!

Don retired happily in Henderson, Nevada. He bought his dream home where he loved to invite his family and friends for visits. When his brother Jodi would visit, Don would want to treat him to an awesome meal or fun night of gambling. But Jodi chose to spend his time visiting with his brother or doing odd jobs around the house. Jodi learned from his big brother’s example. To give to others is the true road to love and just like his brother Don, Jodi loves well.

In 2020, Don’s brother Bob joined him in Henderson. They shared an unforgettable year. Early in the morning on March 6th, Don went to heaven with his loving brother at his side easing his way. There are no words that can clearly express how grateful the entire family is that Bob was there for that year and especially for that moment.

Don leaves behind a family that understands the meaning of generosity, loyalty, and unconditional love. He taught us these things and so much more. We will miss him, we will always love him, we will work hard to be more like him!

In the end, his family and friends can pay him no greater tribute than to thank him for being apart of our lives.

The family will hold a celebration of life for Don around the third week of June 2021. If you would like to reach out to Don’s family please post a note here. Instead of flowers or gifts please donate to the following charity(s) www.patriotpaws.org, https://fisherhouse.org/, or any Veterans or Children’s charity of your choice.