Obituary of James Anthony Duncan

With gratitude and sadness, Tony’s family announces his passing from this life on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 in London, Ontario. He is yet loved by Carroll, his bride of 40 years. Gracious father to Jet (Joan) Takaoka and Jane (Calvin) Zwaan. Adoring Papa to Kelsey, Kailey, James and Anna-Lise Zwaan and Kaitlin, Evan, Olivia and Jennifer Takaoka. Fondly remembered by his sister Harriett (Clifford) McNamara and by many nephews and nieces. He is predeceased by his parents Harry and Ira, and his siblings Ardelle (Jim), Tommy (Barb), Mickey (Ray), Robin, and Sharon (Roland). Tony was born September 15, 1933 in Parry Sound, Ontario. He adventured into the world by joining the Royal Canadian Navy. His earliest deployment was during the Korean conflict on HMCS Huron tasked with “train-busting” and escort actions. He spent much of his navy career in Halifax, NS. Transitioning from the Navy to Canada Post, he would become Station Master in Bedford, Nova Scotia. Introduced by his sister, he created a great love story when he married Carroll. She was a widow with two children whom he raised as his own. He built them a house by a lake and filled it with joy. Tony was a lifelong learner. He studied music as an adult, learned to paddle a canoe, played cribbage, baked pies and butter tarts, gardened with some success and crafted elegant Victorian screen doors. To his wife’s chagrin, he and their teenaged son bought a motorcycle to conquer. To his great pleasure, Tony built two houses and a cottage. He loved to work with tools and wood. He was born to travel: the Navy took him around the world and his family drove him around the bend! Family road trips were a regular occurrence including an epic cross-Canada drive in 1976 with his new bride and the kids. As his health declined, he still ventured out to BC, Nova Scotia and the Caribbean. Tony was a gentle soul to all who knew him. A child of the Great Depression, he knew how to give generously. He was hospitable and social to everyone, always putting the coffee on to share. No trip “to town” was made without one, or multiple stops at Tim’s. Tony did not often speak out, but when he did, he had something to say. He retained his great sense of humour even in failing health. His caregivers were often left smiling at his quips. Greatest of all, Tony had a quiet and enduring love for his Saviour, Jesus Christ. With Carroll, Tony served as a long-time member of Bible Baptist Church in Halifax. On the last morning of his life, he joined in the hymn sing with other members of Parkwood’s Veterans Care. His favourite hymn was, “Why Should He Love Me So?”. His family is thankful to the many caregivers who assisted Tony, especially to Karen, Linda, Elen, Rebekah, Mike and the compassionate staff at Parkwood. A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 7, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, with Reverend Donald Calder officiating. Visitation will be held one hour before the memorial service. Memorial gifts to HOPE International Development Agency (www.hope-international.com) would be kindly received.