Rev. Dr. Duncan Trueman

Warwick, NY

Rev. Dr. Duncan Trueman, a resident of Warwick, NY, passed away on March 9, 2010 at Valley Hospital, Ridgewood, NJ. He was 85.

The son of Duncan Thomas and Harriette Webster Trueman, he was born on December 30, 1924 in Whitestone, NY.

A graduate of Hofstra University and Drew University School of Theology, he was appointed by the New York Conference of the Methodist Church to service churches in Livingston Manor, Parksville, Beaverkill, and Lew Beach in Sullivan County, and Goshen and New Milford in Orange County. He later received his degree in Education and his doctorate in Ministry. His ministry spanned a period of 55 years.

He taught at the Warwick School for Boys and then at Mid-Orange Correctional Facility, where he held the positions of Education Director, Education Supervisor and finally as Deputy Superintendent of Programs. He retired after 20 years.

A veteran of World War II, he proudly served with the 106th Infantry Division, First Army in the European theater. He landed on Utah Beach on D-Day and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He was a recipient of the Combat Infantry Badge. He became Chaplain of the 106th Infantry Division, delivering memorial addresses across the country. He was also a member of the National Battle of the Bulge Association, serving as president of the local chapter in Orange County. He was a member of the V.F.W. In retirement, he devoted time to counseling veterans and in particular, those suffering from Post Stress Trauma.

Survivors include his beloved wife and helpmate of 62 years, Grace of Warwick; his beloved son, Steven and his fianceé, Joy; beloved daughter, Anna Trueman of San Anselmo, CA; sister, Harriette Hart of Tampa, FL; brother-in-law, The Rev. Robert Reiners and his wife, Elizabeth; his sister-in-law, Margaret Reiners; many nieces and nephews who were dear to him.

The family will be present to receive friends on Friday, March 12, from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. at Warwick United Methodist Church, 135 Forrester Ave., Warwick, NY.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 13, at Warwick United Methodist Church, followed by interment in Warwick Cemetery, with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to the New Milford United Methodist Church Building Fund, PO Box 137, New Milford, NY 10959.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 17 Oakland Avenue, Warwick, NY 10990. To send an online condolence, see www.lsvpmemorialhome.com.