Obituary of Marion Duffy
It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Marion Jean Duffy (nee Burk) on January 31, 2025, at the age of 99.
She lived a long and fulfilling life, reaching the milestone of her 100th year, a testament to her strength, resilience, and the love of those around her.
Mom died peacefully with loved ones surrounding her.
She was born and raised on a farm in Blenheim, Ontario to Orville and Marie Burk. It was there she met her future husband who worked for her father. The first time he saw her, Gordon Allen Duffy (1997) said "I’m going to marry that girl!". And he did, in 1944. They were married for 53 years and over a span of 25 years, they welcomed a brood of 8: Gale (Tony-England), Gary (2021), Lee (Ruth-Merlin), Heather Lynn (2001), Laura (Greg-Ridgetown), Gwen (Ridgetown), Janice (Shawn-Chatham) and Erin (Rob-Forest). She was a cherished grandmother to 18, great-grandmother to 24, and great-great-grandmother to 1.
Much loved by sister June Anderle (Tom- Santa Barbara, California) and brother Ronald (2014).
In any spot they landed, city, small town, farm or air force base, she made a happy home for her family. When she was a young mom with a spirit of adventure and an unwavering commitment to her loved ones, they even crossed the country in a station wagon; camping with kids, a 9 x 12 tent, and a Coleman stove. Her fortitude was unmatched—navigating life's challenges with grace and calm, always putting her family’s needs first. In Goose Bay, she suffered the loss of twin girls Marie and Marion in 1958. She was an air force wife, nursemaid, homemaker, taxi driver, working woman, volunteer, story teller, poem writer, church-goer who loved to sing, avid reader, confidant, and friend. But her most important role remained as a devoted mother. There were always home cooked meals and room for one more at the table. Mom could feed an army with one loaf of bread and a can of tuna. She stuck with Dad through thick and thin and never complained or asked for anything. She worked very hard to keep her merry gang of Duffys together. She saw a lot, did a lot, and survived a lot. From horse and buggy to cellphones and internet. What a ride she had!
Many thanks to the staff at the Village, especially Mary Lou, who was always a comforting soul.
Anyone wishing to make a donation could please consider the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation.
A Private Family Service will be held.
Her death leaves a void in our lives that will never be filled. We can only strive to emulate her, surround ourselves with the love of family, and make her proud.
Mom, you are forever in our hearts.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.
McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519 674 3141