Mack D. Duce

I remember Mack and my dad meeting at the Minnesota State Fair in 1960 to look at the new Trabant ride that Mack has just imported from Germany. My dad looked the ride over and was very impressed with the new action and had an idea on how to trailer mount the ride to make it more portable. My dad told Mack “I can build them if you can sell them”. They shook hands and never had a written contract for the 30 years of their business association. When I think of Mack integrity is the first...

I have lost a great friend in Mack Duce. Our business association was successful for over 30 years as he was responsible for selling all the new rides we could build. He was careful not to take orders from those he felt could not afford or need our rides. He was also helpful to many operators who lacked the financing and would be unable to purchase without his help. Many shows would grow to become major operators with Mack’s help.

Miles traveled or hours worked were never a problem...

Mack was my friend and mentor for forty years. In the late 60’s, before starting Venture Ride Manufacturing, I worked for Mack selling Chance rides. He was the best teacher I’d ever known. He let you stumble a little; then, when you knew you needed help he was always there.

Last night I attended a forth of July celebration at a private air field. They had just erected an air tower which they had purchased from Donaldson Air Base in Greenville, SC. Mack received his pilot...

For 37 years I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Mack D. Duce; I called him “The Big Wheel”. It was always with joy and anticipation that I looked forward to another day with him in the office.

He was a strict, “by-the-rules” administrator, but most compassionate, lending a hand, advice, assist-advisory, and financial. He loved his work and his friends. His friends became my friends, also. It was his primary object to please and assist; duty held first place in...

For 40 plus years Mack was my friend. During those years the one attribute that stands out most was Macks ability to make everyone feel at ease. As he spoke in his soft mellow tone voice, those around him would strain to hear what he had to say. I will miss hearing what he has to say. Mack you are missed.

My life is better for having known Mr. Mack Duce, a truly outstanding man. I shall miss him and will always remember our wonderful visits. May God bring comfort to his family and friends.