Eric Matthew Duenez

Eric Matthew Duenez, 46, slipped from the world on Monday, February 23, 2026 at home after a sudden illness.

Eric arrived on this earth November 12, 1979, where he joined his parents, Laurie and Joe Duenez. He was a lifetime Plymouth resident. He was a member of the class of 1998 at Plymouth High School. Later he received a Bachelor of Arts degree from IUSB.

During high school Eric worked at Taco Bell. After a couple journeys elsewhere, he always returned to Taco Bell, remaining until his passing. As Eric aged and the staff became younger, he became a mentor to many. They were his family "outside of family".

A big part of his life was dedicated solely to music, poetry, and literature, which he loved so much. He was a self-published author of poetry and almost a groupie for the band Local H. Eric's views for life and his beliefs were never stuffed down. He was never afraid to tell you what he really thought. As someone said about Eric, "he was one of a kind".

He also had such a love for animals, his cats were his babies. They meant the world to him. He fed the neighborhood cats and provided shelter for those who couldn't find it themselves, both animals and people.

Eric is survived by his fur babies: George; LeeLoo; Beatrix; and Pixel. Ripley and Hannibal preceded him in death. He is also survived by his human family: his mother and stepdad, Laurie and Dave Stults; his sister, Krystal (JD) Ort; his nephew and niece, Jaden and Izzy Ort; his stepsister, Gayla (Mark) Berger; his stepbrother, Eric (Stephanie) Stults; and his grandmother, Marilyn Gochenour.

Eric was preceded in death by his father, Jose Duenez; his foster brother, David Stevens; his stepbrother, David Stults, Jr.; and his grandfather, Loren Gochenour.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home (115 S. Main St., Bourbon, IN 46504).

A service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Dave Williams officiating.

The burial will take place at Pleasant Hill Cemetery (Bourbon, IN).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Marshall County Humane Society (P.O. Box 22, Plymouth, IN 46563).

Thank you to all our friends and community for your support during this difficult time. Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home wishes to extend our deepest condolences to the family and is honored to be providing our services in celebrating the life of Eric. Friends are invited to sign the online guest book and share memories with the family at: www.deatonclemensfh.com.