Ian M. Duchemin

Ian M. Duchemin
January 21, 1999 – September 2, 2024
Ian Mitchell Duchemin passed away unexpectedly on September 2, 2024. Born on January 21, 1999, in Norwich, Ian was the beloved son of Denine (Edwards) and Craig Duchemin.
A lifelong resident of Montville, Ian attended St. Joseph School and St. Bernard School, graduating in 2016. Following his passion for mechanics, Ian pursued an education at the Marine Mechanics Institute in Florida, where he earned his Occupational Associate Degree. Upon graduating, Ian worked as a diesel marine mechanic and in 2020, he joined his friend Nathan Sombric at Tri-State Marine. Through this, Nate and Ian became family.
Ian's natural knack with all things mechanical started early, inheriting his love for fixing things from his grandfather and father.
He loved working with engines, a passion that continued throughout his life. He was always willing to lend a hand to family and friends; whether it be fixing trucks, bikes, or anything mechanical. Ian's giving nature, reliability, and unwavering loyalty made him a trusted friend and advisor to all who knew him.
You heard the revving of Ian's engine – and often his laughter – coming before you saw him. He brought joy to many, including the children and adults he delighted by towing them around the yard behind the tractor.
Ian lived life loudly. He enjoyed road trips with his boys - Jordy, Tyler, and Jon - most recently to tame the Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina. He loved traveling, camping, go-karting, RC cars, motorcycle riding, fishing, and boating. Ian was a young but seasoned traveler, enjoying trips with his parents, Haley, and close friends to places such as Stowe, Turks and Caicos, Costa Rica, the Caribbean, Canada, and various music festivals amongst other places lucky enough to have him visit.
Ian is survived by his parents, Denine and Craig Duchemin, and the love of his life, Haley Zawilinski, and their dog, Harley. He is also survived by his maternal grandmother, Rose Edwards; aunts and uncles Candace and Michael Downing, Cheryl McHale, and Belinda and Randy Noble; cousins Kenny Florence, Michael, Shannon, and Daryl Noble, Angie and Jordy Downing, and Michael's children, Colin and Mason; Godparents, Walter and Amy L'Heureux Schmardel; his chosen family, Jeremy and Laurel Corrao; his best friends Tyler Glynn, Ian Violette, Jonathan Cabral, and his "brothers," Zeus and Axel. He leaves behind a village of friends and loved ones who will forever miss his voice of reason, comforting hugs, and kind heart. Ian was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Marcia and Lomond "Dutch" Duchemin; his maternal great-grandmother, Italia "Tillie" Matroni; and his uncle, Rick McHale.
Ian's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to DEEP and the State Environmental Conservation Police Division(EnCon) - particularly Captain Keith Williams and Sergeant Billy Logiodice, the USCG, Sea Tow, Old Saybrook Police Department, dive teams, air support, drone operators, and the police and fire departments who worked collaboratively to bring Ian home. Special thanks to Harbor One Marina for providing a place for us to gather during this difficult time.
Additionally, we would like to acknowledge and thank all of the volunteers, families, and friends that joined in the search efforts and worked tirelessly day in and day out.
A celebration of Ian's life will take place on Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 4:00-9:00 pm at St. Bernard School, 1593 Norwich-New London Turnpike, Uncasville, Connecticut.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made at https://gofund.me/5a52a679 to help with funeral expenses. Additional funds collected will be used to create a scholarship in Ian's name.
Live Life a ¼ Mile at a Time – Dominic Toretto