James D. Duncan

James D. Duncan, 71, of Maumee, Ohio passed away peacefully Sunday, August 4, 2013 surrounded by his adoring family. He was born to the late David and Nina Duncan, May 30, 1942, in Toledo, Ohio. Jim graduated from Devilbiss High School in 1960 and attended The University of Toledo before beginning his career at Duncan Metal Spinning Company, which was founded by his father in 1964. Jim was an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army. He was a proud member of the 101st Airborne and an expert rifleman. He married Christine in 1967 where they made their first home on the Maumee River. They created a beautiful family together and filled their days sailing and looking forward to the next adventure. Jim was the quintessential self taught man and inventor. Using his expertise, he restored a 1920s wooden sailboat along with his father-in-law, Chuck. A master at reading blueprints and a math whiz led to his success as the most interesting man. Countless inventions were born at his workbench when he wasnt on the course playing 9 holes. An intrinsically gifted problem solver, he always found a way to make things work better, whether it was a Big Wheel or a tiller on a dinghy. He was patient and thoughtful with an incredibly wicked wit; there was never a shortage of laughter. An avid sailor throughout his life, he and his family logged in many hours on Lake Erie making cherished memories with adventures to Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay. As his family grew, Jim and Chris made a second summer home on South Bass Island, where coffee on the porch, before the children woke up, was tradition. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Christine and three children Lisa Duncan Kudlac Daniel, of Maumee; Emily Duncan Winkle Paul, of Monclova; and Joseph Julie, of Maumee. He also is survived by his granddaughters, Mary, Page, Katharine, Emma, Grace and step-grandson, Justin. Friends may visit the family at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Ave. west of Corey Rd. from 4-8:00pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2013 and from noon until the time of service at 1:30pm on Thursday, August 8th. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Lial Catholic School, 5700 Davis Rd. Whitehouse, OH 43571. Condolences may be shared at walkerfuneralhomes.com.