DUNCAN, Michael Wesley

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Saturday, December 08, 2012 Michael Wesley Duncan, 61, passed away peacefully on Nov. 20, 2012, after a short illness in the company of family and close friends. Born in Pontiac, Mich., on May 19, 1951, Mike grew up in nearby Clarkston. He graduated with a BS in soil science from Utah State University. He was married to his beloved Diane (Mouthaan) for 34 years. In 1980 they moved to Arizona, where they spent their lives together and raised their children Nathan and Rachel. Mike managed large farming operations in southwestern Arizona for many years. He then worked for the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development as area specialist for 23 years, retiring last year. Mike was a quiet person with a quick wit and an unfailing ability to spot humor in ordinary and extraordinary situations alike. He passed along his love of animals to his children. He was an avid reader, had a keen interest in politics and a passion for cooking. Mike enjoyed working with his hands building small-scale models. Mike was an outdoorsman; he loved to hike, fish and hunt, and was always up for an adventure into the desert or up a mountain top. He very much loved and was proud of his wife and wonderful children who will miss him deeply! Mike was preceded in death by his parents Gary and Alicia Duncan, and his grandparents Senator George and Eva Higgins, and Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Duncan. He was loved and will be missed by his brother Larry (Mildred); his sister Marilyn Koutnik (Carl); and numerous other family members who will always remember him in their hearts and minds. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14, 2012, at St. Germaine Catholic Church, 7997 E. Dana Drive in Prescott Valley, Ariz. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family, Diane Duncan, in care of St. Germaine. Information provided by survivors.