Abe Duban

Abe Duban

Abe "he's such a nice guy" Duban was born on April 27, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois. He was the seventh child born to his sweet mom, Clara. He was a shy little guy, but that didn't last long growing up in a predominantly tough Italian neighborhood for a young Jewish lad. He learned to hold his own and make a lasting impression as a fun, funny and sweet young man and was a loyal friend to all. Always one to be quick with a joke, he loved to tease everyone in his path. He was drafted into the army at 18 and spent a harrowing time in Europe serving as a scout toward the end of World War ll. He was forever changed by this experience which solidified his resolve to enjoy life and be grateful for each of his daily blessings. When he returned, he was presented with one of the most wonderful blessings and was set up on a blind date with the love of his life, Sylvia Matlin. They dated for two years before he popped the question which began a 72 year love story for the books! He started working in the family business manufacturing high end store fixtures, a company in Chicago he headed with his brother for many years. They began their young family and the eldest Dennis came along followed three years later by Robert. Their dear daughter, Helene was another story and surprised them 7 years later. Abe was the most devoted family man and there was never a moment that the Duban clan didn't know they were his love and his life. He was known to hug and kiss those he loved with such fervor that you could never question his love for you. If you received one of his special cheek squeezes then you know you had been blessed with the special Abe seal of love. The family moved to Westwood California in 1969 and Abe and Sylvia started their Real Estate career. They relished in their kids and supported them through education, careers and starting families of their own. They loved the desert and moved to semi-retire in Rancho Mirage in 1991 where they have cherished their friends and community there. Abe loved to play cards with the guys and generally was the youngest at the table even though his chronological age was the highest. Abe and Sylvia traveled the world and never let the dust settle under their feet. Abe lived a sweet and wonderful life and he passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Sylvia, his son Dennis Duban and his husband Kevin, Robert Duban and his wife Emily. His beloved daughter, Helene Nishizawa predeceased him in 2018 but is survived by her husband Willie. His grandchildren are Stefan Duban and wife Jessica, Mark Duban, Heather Lee and her husband Eric, Chelsea Waechter and her husband Dominic, Alex and Rebecca Nishizawa and Great Grandchildren Remy Duban and Mason Lee.