DUCE, DeWayne

DeWayne Delbert Duce March 8, 1934 – July 11, 2025 DeWayne Delbert Duce was a man who lived with heart, humor and an unwavering devotion to his family, faith and community. Dad was a natural jokester who loved to tease and connected with people through humor. He had a passion for music that began early. At age 12, he was invited to play his trumpet with a professional orchestra, sparking a lifelong love of Big Band music. Music filled our home and shaped 3 generations, thanks to his dedication, both as a teacher and performer.
Dad’s enthusiasm extended to the world of sports. He played, coached and officiated countless games and took joy in all of it. He dedicated many years as the athletic director for SAIAC, always improving programs with each new year. Dad was also a passionate fan of Stampede Wrestling. He sat on the edge of his chair, twitching and flinching with every punch, kick, and body slam, as if he were right there in the ring. He brought the same intensity to every sport he participated in, always striving to teach fairness, effort, and respect both on the court and at home. We as a family, though, do apologize for the miscalls he made while officiating in his later years.
Dad worked at many jobs to provide for his family. In his 30’s, while raising a young family, he returned to school and earned his Bachelor of Education from the University of Lethbridge. He loved learning and thrived as a teacher. While teaching, he also owned and operated Tom’s House of Pizza where lots of memories and great pizzas were consumed. Dad’s testimony of the gospel was strong and he served faithfully within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Dad had a legendary love of Super Big Gulps from 7-11. He should have been made an honorary franchise owner, or, built his own store with the number of cups collected over the years. 7-11 will surely miss him.
But Dad’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He cherished his wife Fern with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Dad was predeceased by his wife Fern, his parents, Delbert and Imogene, stepmother Gene, brother Gary, and great granddaughter Giselle. He is survived by his children, Janet (Les), Kendall (Kerri), Lisa (Shane) and Greg (Annette); 16 grandchildren: 34 great grandchildren; and siblings Connie (Bob) Sharon (Dahl) and sister-in-law Sandra.
Please join us in remembering him:
Friday, July 25th 7-8 pm. Salmon and Sons Funeral Home 433 Stubb Ross Rd. Funeral Service Saturday, July 26th 2:00 pm. Northside LDS Chapel 2223-6th Ave, N. Lethbridge Meet the family from 1:00pm – 1:45 pm prior to the service To send a condolence, please visit www.salmonandsons.ca