Willard Duncan

Willard was born in Harrisburg, IL on November 20, 1938 and grew up in Herrin, IL where he graduated from Herrin Township High School. Willard then went on to Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, then continued graduate studies at DePaul University and the University of Chicago.

Education would always be central in Willard’s life, whether in his own pursuits of learning or in teaching others in a career spanning 60 years. His first teaching assignment was with the Department of Defense Dependents School in Frankfurt and Main, Germany. Five years later, when returning to the States, he taught in Calumet City and then in Skokie District 73 ½ in Illinois. Even after his retirement, he continued to teach for many years serving in the Niles Township Substitute Co-op.

Willard was well known for his devotion to his students and his passion for bringing lessons alive. When he recently attended the elementary school reunion for 73 ½, his former students were eager to share their stories of lessons which engaged them in remarkable ways, subtly changing their values, and inspiring their curiosity and creativity. Also, his newly acquired presence on FB allowed Willard to hear from other pupils. Their outpouring both amazed Willard and meant so much to him, allowing him to realize the depth of the impact he had on shaping their lives.

Another of Willard’s passions included volunteering in local organizations, supporting those living with HIV/AIDS, at Better Existence with HIV (Evanston) and later in an administrative capacity directing the installation of the AIDS quilt around the country and training volunteers. A highlight was overseeing the installation of the quilt at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Willard also loved to cook. He was featured in the March 11, 1993 Food section of the Chicago Sun-Times for his “numerous culinary traditions” and also for his commitment to cooking each Sunday at Chicago House, a residence supporting individuals with HIV/AIDS. His culinary talents went far as he sharpened knives on a spit stone, seasoned cast iron skillets, and prepared recipes from various cultures which were redesigned to consider the special diets of those with AIDS. On those Sundays, he carried residents too weak to walk downstairs, to the dining room where they could socialize, breaking the tedium of isolation, enjoying the company of others.

Throughout his many and varied connections, Willard will be remembered for his generosity of spirit. He allowed time to converse; he was always curious about others’ stories. He was very kind and optimistic in those connections, always generous. His front porch was a neighborhood gathering space for a chat and an after work drink for those on a stroll. For wherever Willard went, he created community. He will be sorely missed by his many friends and family.

Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Sybil, nee Ferrell and Ward Duncan; brothers, James (Margaret) Duncan and Larry Duncan; as well as his brother-in-law, Robert Surowiec; and 2 nephews. He is survived by his sister, Phyllis Surowiec; 9 nieces and nephews; and multiple great-nieces and nephews.

Donations in honor of Willard can be made to Chicago House and Social Services, 4631 N. Beacon Street, Chicago, IL, 60640 or at: www.chicagohouse.org/donate , or to a charity of one’s choosing.