DUNCAN, Francis Wayne

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Francis Wayne Duncan at Chapman House Hospice on Tuesday, April 26^th, 2022 at the age of 90, with his family by his side.

Beloved husband of Betty Anne (nee Soini) for 61 years.  Loving father to Gwen Duncan (John Christie) of Owen Sound, Gayda Duncan of Owen Sound, Daniel Duncan of Toronto, and Lana Duncan (Peter Allen) of Hanover.  Very proud grandfather of Emma, Georgia, Alex, Sarah and Nora. Dear brother of Shirley Dyck (Wally Derkach) of Swift Current, SK.

Wayne will be fondly remembered by many cherished nieces and nephews on all sides of his family who have warm recollections of their Uncle Wayne.  Wayne was predeceased by his parents Andrew Edward and Selina May and eight siblings who were very dear to his heart: Edna, Jim, Dan, Alma, Merrial, Gerald, Glenn, and Bobbi.

Wayne was born on a farm in Neville, Saskatchewan on Oct. 11, 1931.  Along with his parents and nine brothers and sisters, he lived through the years of the Great Depression in the dustbowl of the prairies.  This early experience greatly influenced his character and instilled in him a loyalty to his family that could not be shaken.   Wayne’s family has always been of central importance to him.  He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces and nephews and loved to spend time in their company.  He played an important role in keeping the history of his Saskatchewan roots alive by sharing stories of his childhood years spent on Spring Valley Farm.

Wayne was a farmer at heart and a teacher by trade.  He loved the Duncan family farm in Normanby Township and ran a cow-calf operation there for many years, building lasting friendships with neighbouring farmers. Wayne taught welding and other technical shops at both Walkerton District and John Diefenbaker Secondary Schools during his time in the Hanover area.  He had treasured memories of working alongside respected teaching colleagues who also become his longtime friends.  Wayne was fond of his students and had a soft spot for those who particularly needed his encouragement and support.

Family and friends are invited to Mighton Funeral Home for a visitation to be held on Thursday, May 5^th, 2022, from 5 pm – 8 pm.  A memorial service will take place at the Funeral Home on Friday, May 6^th, 2022 at 11 AM.  The family would like to respectfully request that masks be worn at both the visitation and service.

Wayne’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Randy Montag, who provided outstanding support to our father over many years.  In the last year of his life, Wayne spent some time both in Hanover & District Hospital and at the Hanover Care Centre.  We would like to thank the staff at both facilities who provided diligent care for him and treated him with such warmth and kindness.  At the end of his life, Wayne received truly wonderful care at Grey Bruce Regional Health Centre and Chapman House Residential Hospice.  We are so thankful for the efforts of all of the doctors, nurses and personal support workers who made his last days as comfortable as possible and also supported our family during this time.

As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to Chapman House Residential Hospice in Owen Sound would be greatly appreciated. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mightonfuneralhome.ca