James (Jim) Otis Duncan passed away peacefully at Villa Marie in Red Deer, Alberta on April 27th, 2019 at the age of 86 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Clarice; his children Patricia (Dan), George and TerryAnn (Michael); his grandchildren Nicole (Ryan), Greg (Laura), Jerry (Carissa), Ryan, Ryley, Tyler and Jesse; his eight great grandchildren; step sons Dan (Brenda) Redmond, Terry (Tara) Redmond, Jeff (Pam) Redmond; step grandchildren Sarah (Titus) Kropft, Chalsea (Nick) Birkland, Casie (Craig) Woods, Conner Redmond, Liam Redmond, Maddison Redmond, Hanna Redmond, Daryn Redmond, and Cale Redmond as well as eight step great grandchildren, numerous extended family members and many friends. He was predeceased by his wife Nita, grandson Terrance and granddaughter Holly. Jim was born in Ogalalla Nebraska on February 19, 1933 to George and Sophia Duncan. When he was 5 years his father passed away and at age 8 he and his mother moved to the farm at Winfield. AB. Early in life he developed a strong work ethic as well as his love for land, nature and animals. At the age of 21 he and Nita purchased their farm and raised Holstein dairy cattle with the help of his cherished dog Speed. He had a calm, gentle and soft-spoken way with animals so it was not surprising that neighbors would bring him troubled horses for training. After many years on the farm the decision was made to move the family to Forshee, AB. Jim went to work for Walker Construction and within a few short years built up his own successful heavy equipment construction business employing local workers. Requiring a shop for the business and a desire for more land led him and Nita to buy a picturesque acreage on the Blindman River where they built their home and shop. When not working he spent many hours, dog at side, enjoying time with his horses and the everchanging beauty of land and river. His grandchildren enjoyed riding in the sleigh he designed and built, horseback riding and following grandpa around the acreage. It thrilled him that they would eat a good meal after fresh air and exercise. Sadly, Nita’s health failed and eventually they moved to Rimbey. Now semi-retired, with dishcloth in his back pocket he cooked, cleaned and with love cared for Nita until her passing in 1997. In 1998 Jim met Clarice Redmond. They began dating and were married in the same year. The two families combined and became friends. Jim and Clarice lived in Red Deer for a short time, but Jim longed to be in the country, so they purchased an acreage in Woodland Hills and so began the ideal life. They warmly welcomed many visitors and hosted many events. They did much traveling and camping with their motorhome accompanied often with good friends and relatives. Jim loved living in the country, close to the woods and the wild life. There were wonderful years. In 2012 due to health issues, they sold the acreage and moved to Horizon Village in Red Deer. This also proved to be a blessing with good friends, neighbours and a lovely home. The last two years were difficult, but Jim and Clarice were there for each other. Jim will always be remembered for his work ethic, honesty and great big smile. A special Thank You to the staff at Covenant Care Villa Marie in Red Deer for their compassion and care. A memorial service in honor of Jim will be held at the Horizon Village Community Hall, 2821 – Botterill Cres., Red Deer AB on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 1:00 pm. If friends so desire memorial tributes in Jim’s name may be made to a charity of choice. Condolences may be sent by email to meaningful@telus.net. Arrangements in care of Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service, Red Deer and all of Central Alberta 587-876-4944.

• Date : 2019-04-27
• Location : Red Deer, Alberta