Linda Alice Duca

Linda Alice Duca, 46, of San Rafael, California, formerly of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away suddenly on June 24, 2024. Linda had an insatiable appetite for creation and adventure. Her drive and passion for life was truly unmatched. Linda was a lover of the arts, nature, sailing, kayaking, and rock climbing. Ultimately, she loved being part of an amazing community in Marin County that made her feel happy and whole. Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey is a special place where Linda spent summers with all her loved ones. Linda traveled all over the world to connect with old friends and unearth new experiences. Her approach to problem solving was unique and inventive and her command of a situation never wavered. We will all cherish the time we had with Linda and the force of nature that she was.

Linda is survived by her husband Brandon Dayoan, daughter Lana Cerise Duca, sister Stefanie Valerio, father John Duca, stepmother Amy Sarracino, and mother-in-law Jo Dayoan. She was predeceased by her mother, Lila Duca, and father-in-law, Ben Dayoan.

Linda graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1996 and the University of Maryland in 2000. After graduation she spent a year volunteering for AmeriCorps in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It was during her volunteer service that she met her future husband, Brandon. In 2002 Linda relocated to San Francisco to be with Brandon, eventually marrying in 2006. They moved to San Rafael and began to form a community.

Linda began her career with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District in 2005 as an Inspector in the Compliance & Enforcement Division, where she rose to the position of Supervising Air Quality Specialist. She was responsible for oil refineries' adherence to environmental standards across the Bay Area. She felt a personal responsibility to uphold the mission statement of the Air District, which is to create a healthy breathing environment for every Bay Area resident. She was credited for the agency securing a $130 million settlement against Chevron and Martinez Refining Co. after a five-year challenge.