Bernard J Duddleston

Bernard J. Duddleston Jr., age 71 passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025, peacefully with his daughter next to him. After over a decade of living with Parkinson’s Disease.

Bernard, his friends called him Bern or Bernie, was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Bernard J. Duddleston Sr. and Elaine Kennedy on February 13, 1954. Bern grew up in the Chicago area and lived in Wonder Lake, IL, with his beloved wife of 28 years, Kathy.

Together, they created a beautiful life and home. Bern was always giving of his time and talents, and worked as a truck driver most of his working career, a genius when it came to home projects, and was a talented artist and business owner as well.

Beloved father of two children, Tracey (Garon) Albrecht and Daniel Duddleston. Grandchildren: Orion, Kai, Alec, Alexia, Ian, Patrick, Chloe, Hailie, and Eden. He loved all his grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews, but those little girls had Papa D wrapped around their little fingers. His siblings, with whom he loved: Dan (Sue), Mike (Amy), Jeanne (Don), Joe, and Cary (Mike).

Bernie enjoyed the summer family picnics and Christmas parties, and seeing everyone in his and Kathy’s family. There were a lot of friends and family that were important to Bernie, too many to list, and he will be missed dearly.

Bern was a loyal friend to many and supported and volunteered in his subdivision and community. He enjoyed working on and driving cars almost all his life, and restoring his 1965 Chevy truck piece by piece.

Bernie was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Joe, and his wife Kathy.

Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9:00am to 11:00am with a service at 10:00am at Life Bridge Church on Rt. 176 in Wauconda, Illinois. Luncheon to follow.