Charles Duncan

Charles Leroy Duncan, 86, passed away in Denver, Colorado, on November 25, 2023.

Charles Leroy Duncan, born August 30, 1937, in Casper, Wyoming, was an accomplished academic, athlete, and dedicated military veteran. Before graduating from Natrona County High School, he played pivotal roles in the school's 1954 state track and 1955 state basketball championship teams.

Post-graduation, Charles honorably served in the United States Army, demonstrating commitment through two years of active duty stationed in Germany, followed by an additional four and a half years in the reserves. His military service showcased his dedication and instilled in him values that would guide him throughout his life.

Upon returning from military service, Charles continued his education at Casper College, where he engaged in basketball, held the position of student body treasurer, and pledged to the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society. His military background undoubtedly influenced his resilience and leadership, which later manifested in his successful professional endeavors and contributions to his community.

Charles was involved in many aspects of the community during his years in Casper. For nine years, he was on the Board of Directors for the United Fund of Natrona County, an active member of the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce, and a thirteen-year member of the Casper College Booster Club, holding offices of President, Vice-President, and Secretary. He helped create lifelong friendships when he helped found the Casper Midget Football Association. The City of Casper also benefitted from Charles’s talent when he served on the Athletic Facilities Advisory Board, including two years as Chairman of the City Council. A twenty-year Central Wyoming Officials Association member, he served as both Secretary and President. He enjoyed many years of officiating football and basketball. In 2021, he was inducted into the Wyoming Athletic Association's Hall of Fame for his years of officiating.

Charles's true passion was his family. He was a devoted father to three daughters a loving grandfather to five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His presence was unwavering at their sporting events and family functions, embodying the role of a true family leader. Known for his wisdom and listening ear, Charles provided invaluable advice and shared captivating stories about his life and historical interests.

He leaves a legacy of love and guidance that his surviving family will cherish: Diane Lujan (Nick), Linda Wilson (Chuck), and Janet Harlow of Colorado. His five grandchildren include Michael (Danielle), Tyler (Rozely), Jonathan (Layne), Wilson, Dakota, and Kellen Harlow, as well as two great-grandchildren. Charles is also survived by his brother Bill Duncan, several nieces and nephews, his brothers-in-law Bob Baker (Janet) and Joe Armijo (Janet), sister-in-law Beth Luers (Frank), and a close friend of the family, Vicki Metzger.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Susan Duncan; his parents, Roy Duncan, and Elsie Flyr; his mother-in-law, Mary Louise Baker; his brother-in-law, Tom Weinrich; and his wife, Julie; his brother-in-law, George Baker; and his wife Kathy, and sisters-in-law Janet Armijo and Kathy Duncan.

The family requests donations in lieu of flowers to:

Casper Midget Football Association, PO Box 1114, Casper, WY  82602; Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado and Wyoming, 6025 S. Quebec St, #150, Centennial CO 80111; or The ALS Association, 1300 Wilson Blvd Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22209.

A funeral Mass will be held Thursday, December 28, 2023, at 1:00 pm at St Anthony's Catholic Church, 604 S. Center Street, Casper, Wyoming 82601, with inurnment to immediately follow at Highland Park Cemetery. Please join the family for a reception at the Casper Country Club, 4149 Country Club Road, Casper, WY 82609.