James Duncan

James passed away at his home on Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at the age of 73. The son of the late Lewis and Lorraine (Jolsmburg) Duncan. He was born on September 26, 1946 in Redwing, Minnesota. He graduated from Clear Lake High school in Wisconsin, class of 1965. James served in the United States Army during1968 and 1969 in the Vietnam War in the 101st airborne. He later married Pamela Cole on July 3, 1986 in Bebee, Michigan.

Jim was a laborer at Alma Products in Alma, Michigan for nearly 17 years, retiring in May of 1998. He was an avid drummer, spending nearly four years drumming professionally for “The Odd Couple”. Jim also took part in several other bands including “The Gamblers”, “The Rainbow Drifters” and a polka band. He enjoyed his time fishing, camping at Fletcher’s Pond, pontoon boating, traveling and going to PTSD meetings at the Saginaw VA. Jim had a special taste for Butterfinger flurries, specifically from the Merrill Whippy Dip. He also enjoyed fountain Pepsi and rice pudding made by his close friends. Jim completed his lifelong goal of reconnecting with his four army buddies when he traveled the United States to find them.

He is survived by his wife Pam and five children: Teresa (Dwayne) Bailey; Chad (Christine) Duncan; Cindy (Kevin) Duncan; Rick (Sue) Morrison; Ron (Chandra) Morrison; twelve grandchildren; twelve great- grandchildren. Above all Jim cherished the time he spent with his granddaughter Samantha Kennedy and the loves of his life, great- grandchildren Lilly, Lena and Waylon whom cared for him during his last moments. He is also survived by his siblings Glenn (Sallie) Duncan, Char Smith and a brother in law Jeff (Judy) Cole.

Jim was predeceased by his mother and father in law Carl and Virginia Cole.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Merrill Wesleyan Church (3765 North Chapin Road, Merrill). Pastors Tim Morris and Bradley Harris will officiate. Burial will follow at Lakefield Township Cemetery. Military honors will be rendered under the auspices of the United States Army and VFW Post 7302. Friends may visit with the family on Friday, September 25, 2020 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at W.L. Case and Company (125 E. Saginaw Road, Merrill). Friends may also visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at church on Saturday.