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Walter Nelson Duffett

Posted 2016-03-26 by Judy Wight Branson
The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona
Wednesday, March 23, 2016, page 9a

Walter Duffett U.S. Veteran
March 10, 1930 - March 14, 2016

Walter Duffett passed away peacefully Monday, March 14, 2016, as his wife Julie and daughter Suzee sat lovingly by him at High Gate Senior Living Home in Prescott, Arizona. He had just celebrated his 86th birthday on March 10 as family and friends surrounded him with love and prayers. Walt was born March 10, 1930 in San Diego, California, the son of George and Hazel Duffett.

Walt is survived by his wife of 63 years Julie; he leaves behind two children Bruce Duffett and Suzee Duffett; his brother Dick (Barbara) Duffett; seven grandchildren, Jessica, Joel (children of his deceased son Jeff), George, Melanie, and Julie, Chloe and Keegan; and four great-grandchildren Katie, Trippley, Elijah and Declan.

A wonderful family man and military veteran of both the Marine Corps and the Air Force, he was a hardworking, dedicated military man and rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel in the Air Force. He had already served as a Marine in the 1st Marine Division, 1st Tank Battalion, in battle in Korea and at Inchon and the Chosin Reservoir. In the Air Force, he taught as a professor at the Air Force Academy and as a cartographer at other duty stations, including Yokota, Japan. Together he served 24 years in the service of our country and was proud to do so.

Walt had a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State College, a Master’s Degree from Ohio State University, a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Arizona, and a PhD from the University of Colorado. He was active in Prescott Noon Lions Club, Military Officers of America and other fine groups.

In between all his teachings and studies, he and Julie managed to go on several cruises and travels to Europe, including Spain and Morocco. What a wonderful time they had!

A memorial service will take place at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 24, 2016, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 2000 Shepherd’s Lane in Prescott with military honors beginning the service.

Once a Marine, always a Marine! Semper Fi, old buddy!

Funeral services were entrusted to Wakelin Family Funeral Homes. Please visit www.ruffnerwakelin.com to view and sign Walt’s guestbook and for directions.

Information provided by survivors.




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