Brian F. Ducham

DUCHAM, Brian F. – of Montrose, age 60, died on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Although Brian passed unexpectedly, he was surrounded by the peace of the place he loved and was lovingly welcomed into heaven, where his loyal chocolate lab, Khloe, was waiting to greet him - tail wagging and ready to walk by his side once again.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Good Shepherd Catholic Church – 400 N. Saginaw St., in Montrose. Rev. Fr. Brian Lenz officiating. Burial to follow in Montrose Township Cemetery. The family will receive visitors at the O'Guinn Family Funeral Home in Montrose on Wednesday from 1PM until 8PM, and at the church on Thursday from 10AM until the time of Mass at 11AM. On Wednesday evening at the funeral home, a fireman's walkthrough will begin at 6:30PM, followed by the praying of the Rosary at 7PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for future designation.
Brian was born on July 5, 1964, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Robert and Kathleen (Weisenberger) Ducham. He graduated from New Lothrop High School in 1982. That same year, fate brought him together with the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Rebecca Morse - even if she was from a rival school. Their love story quickly became the real deal, one that would stand the test of time. Brian lovingly referred to her as his "Boo," and the two were married on October 22, 1988. They built a beautiful life together filled with laughter, love, and four amazing children. Each one held a special place in his heart, and he had a nickname for them all - "Sweet Kait," "Bugs," "Jonny," and "Mick." His devotion to his family was unwavering. Brian lived for them - and loved them deeply.
Brian had a heart for service, and began his career at CM Ambulance, where he worked for 23 years. From a young age, Brian knew he wanted to follow in his grandfather's footsteps and become a full-time firefighter. That dream became a reality and his dedication continued with the Bay City Fire Department, where he served with pride for 25 years. Thanks to years of discipline and determination, Brian consistently met and surpassed the demanding physical and technical training required to excel in the field. His work ethic, humility, and grit were second to none. Working his way through the ranks, he ultimately became Fire Chief - a title he wore with humility, integrity, and deep respect for the people he served before retiring in 2019. He never sought recognition, believing instead that his achievements should speak through his actions, not his words. A natural leader and mentor, Brian also devoted time to training and guiding the next generation of firefighters - many of whom are now proudly serving in departments of their own. He was also a proud member of the Bay City Professional Fire Fighters Local #116. Even after retirement, Brian never slowed down, hard work was in his blood. He lent his hands and heart to several other jobs over the years, including the Montrose Fire Department and Montrose Township Cemetery.
Brian was a faithful member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Montrose, where his faith grounded him. He was proud of his Irish heritage, and was known for being quite the jokester, the kind of guy who could lighten the mood with a one-liner or bring a smile with a clever story. Brian loved gardening, cheering on U of M football, rocking out to classic rock music, and playing in his shuffleboard league - which brought him great joy. He was the kind of dad who could fix anything - even a broken heart. He was the one you called when you didn't know what to do, and somehow, he always had the answer. His love was steady, his presence strong, and his absence will be felt deeply by everyone who knew him. Brian will be missed beyond words - not just for what he did, but for who he was. And just like the words from his favorite REO Speedwagon song remind us: "I'm gonna keep on loving you / 'Cause it's the only thing I wanna do." That's the kind of love Brian gave - and that's the kind of love his family will carry with them always.
Surviving are: Wife, Rebecca Ducham; Daughters: Kaitlin Ducham (Fiancé, Stevie Petit), and Brianna (Brandon) Green; Sons: Jon Ducham, and Brandon Ducham; Siblings: Daniel Ducham, David Ducham, Jeanne (Don) Cooper, and Laura (Bob) Hobson; Many loving nieces, nephews, other family members, dear friends, firehouse brothers, and "best girls" – his dogs: Shiloh and Dixie. Brian was also preceded in death by: Nephew, Justin Ducham and Fiance, Missy; Niece, Madison Morse. Please sign our guestbook or share an online condolence with the family at www.oguinnfh.com.
O'Guinn Family Funeral Home
Montrose Chapel
810.639.6181