Ron Duncan, 79, formerly of Elkhart, died Nov. 17, 2023, at his home in Auburndale, Florida, following a stroke.
He was born Sept. 15, 1944, in Good Will, West Virginia, to George and Bertha (Dillon) Duncan. Surviving are his wife, Pamela, Auburndale; son, Shane Duncan, Clermont; stepsons Troy Bontrager, Elkhart, and Tracy (Lissa) Bontrager, Lakeland, Florida; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Ralph (Mary) Duncan, Elkhart; and sister, Arlene Troyer, Buchanan.
Preceding him in death are his parents and brother, Barry Duncan.
Ron became an avid bowler at a young age. One of his proudest moments was helping his Navy team win the U.S. Atlantic Fleet championship. He won many championships and held many records at the various bowling alleys in the Elkhart area.
While serving in the Navy, Ron trained others on the communication equipment while stationed aboard the U.S.S. Annapolis. After the Navy, Ron followed his brother to Elkhart to the RV industry. He had ownership in several companies including Sprinter Homes, Trailblazer, Sun Land, D&D Customs, Duncan Systems and Duncan RV. Ron touched many lives. He was loved by his employees for his generosity and open-door policy. He was an innovator in the RV industry, building a nationwide motor home windshield installation program and creating an RV training and estimate school for the insurance companies. He loved being challenged with problems and new ideas.
Ron was a long-time members of the Elks and Christiana Creek Country Club where he enjoyed playing golf and made many friendships.
Services will be held at a later date at Florida National Cemetery Bushnell, Florida. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Red Cross.
Ron was dearly loved and will be missed by many.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Arthur Kentgen
December 7, 2023
I had known Ron since 1979 when I became his neighbor. He was a gentleman with a big heart and loving personality. I worked for Ron at Sprinter Rv , D&D , Duncan Systems as his insurance claims manager and developed his RV training school for insurance industry. He was very inovator in developing insurance claim training and RV claims adjusting web program and hand on hand training of insurance adjusters. He was a good employer but more over a great friend who I miss.
Jeff Fullhart
November 29, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Beth North
November 28, 2023
Prayers and love especially to Pam and Shane and their families. We have so many fond memories of times at CCCC and in The Bahamas. Love to you. May Ron rest in eternal peace.
Susan Heidrich-Oman
November 26, 2023
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Nancy Floyd
November 24, 2023
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Steve Horaney
November 22, 2023
I am sadden to hear of Ron's passing. We worked together launching his windshield replacement business and spent more than a few afternoons playing golf. He was a great friend and had a big heart. Ron had a major impact on many people's lives and he will always be remembered as a true friend. Steve Horaney
Val Medich Jr
November 22, 2023
Sad to hear, Ron was a special guy that I knew most of my life. Always had a great time with him out on the lanes. Rest In Peace my friend.
Mark & Carolyn Landis
November 21, 2023
I met Ron through the Elks Club and it didn´t take long to find out what a genuine, generous person he was. I enjoyed the `occasional´ ride in his cart chatting about everything from business to life in general. Never raising his voice, he was always laid back but well respected amongst his golfing friends. We missed him when he moved south and always hoped he´d be in better health by doing so. Sympathies to Pam, Shane and the family from Elkhart.
Jackie Clindaniel
November 21, 2023
I have lots of really nice and fun memories of Ron at The Creek. Such a kind and generous man! My deepest sympathy to all the family.
Karen Grant
November 21, 2023
Pam, I am so sorry to hear of Ron´s passing. You both were so kind to me when Stan died. My prayers are with you.
Scott Grassie
November 21, 2023
I'm very sad to hear of Ron's passing as he was such a great man and played a big part in my early career in the RV business. I really valued my time with Ron and the guidance that he provided me and always considered him a good friend. He will be missed for sure.
My condolences to the extended Duncan family and all who were close to Ron.
Mackenzie Gamble
November 21, 2023
My grandpa always greeted me and my brother with warmth. He always treated us to long boat rides and funny stories! You will be missed grandpa!
Betty Kirby
November 20, 2023
On behalf of my late husband, Ken Kirby, a first.cousin of Ronnie, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the Duncan family. Betty Kirby
Steve Gard
November 20, 2023
Ron was a wonderful friend of mine. We bowled and played golf together for many years. I worked for him for 14 years. He was truly a wonderful and generous man. Pam, Shane and family, our thoughts and prayers are you in this difficult time. RIP Ron. Pat and Steve Gard
Matt Johnson
November 20, 2023
The first time I ever met Ron was in the warehouse of the Duncan building. I had been working there for a few months at this point but was never introduced. One late afternoon we are waiting for the last semi to carry out their trailer for the day and out walks Ron and jumps in the front seat of one of the company trucks. I stopped him and asked what he was doing and he said he was taking the truck for the night. I asked him who he was, and his response was, "My name is on the building". After I got red cheeks and apologized for the inconvenience, he handed me twenty bucks and said, "thanks for keeping an eye on stuff back here." He was a great guy worth celebrating and we would like to send our condolences to everyone in the family especially Shane. Hit 'em straight in heaven Ron!
Chuck Mitschelen
November 20, 2023
Condolences to Pam, Shane, and the rest of the Duncan family. I worked with and for Ron for many years. I will always be grateful for him hiring me when I was out of a job. He was grateful enough to also hire all of my sons to work when they were in high school. Ron had a big heart. Sorry for your loss, Chuck Mitschelen and family.
Ricky A. Duncan
November 20, 2023
I do not remember Ronnie, but I am his cousin Rick Duncan. My dad Charles was his dad's brother. His family moved away from WV when I was very young. Ron was 9 years older than me I believe. I send my condolences to Ron's family. May he rest in peace.
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