Gary H. Duell's Obituary
Gary H. Duell, 87, of Lakeland, FL, formerly of North Creek, NY, passed away September 1, 2024 in Lakeland.
Born October 3, 1936 in Glens Falls, NY, Gary was the son of Harold B. and Alice M. Duell.
Gary graduated from South High in 1954, where he was active on the baseball, football, basketball, and track teams. He graduated from SUNY Oswego in 1958 where he played soccer and baseball. He belonged to the Delta Kappa Fraternity.
In 1958 Gary married his long-time girlfriend, Janice Mason Duell, and they began their teaching careers together at Johnsburg Central School in North Creek, NY. There Gary taught technology and driver education for 34 years, where he passed on his talent for perfection and pride in one’s work. He earned the nickname “proper tool Duell”.
In 1992 Gary and Jen retired from teaching and began traveling in US, Canada, and Alaska in their motor home. They became “snow birds” and spent winters in Lakeland, Florida at the Sanlan RV Park, eventually moving permanently to Lakeland.
In addition to traveling, Gary enjoyed carpentry, building his own home, and maintaining their property. He was an avid and competitive golfer and gained respect at several area courses. He loved his family and was affectionately known as “Grandpa Bus.” For years he was a timer for the annual White Water Derby. He served as a Webelo Scout leader. In addition he taught adult education courses at JCS for many years.
Gary was predeceased by his parents; an infant daughter, Laurie Ann; his siter, Flora Casey; and the family pet labradors, Abner and Cricket.
Left to cherish Gary’s memory are his wife, Jan, of 66 years; his son, Gegory (Linda) G. Duell of Apex, NC; his daughter, Susan J. Alfaro and her husband, Carlos, of Fairfax Station, VA; four grandchildren; Carlie (Johnny Ross) and Owen Alfaro; and Nathan (Mackenzie) and Hannah Duell; great grandson Jameson Gregory Duell; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. His beloved little Oreo also survives.
A memorial service will be held at the discretion of family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be made to SPCA, Lakeland FL.
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