Donald Harry Duncan

MILLERTON — Donald Harry Duncan, 78, of Millerton, New York, passed away peacefully at home on June 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Nov. 30, 1947, in Millerton, Don was the son of the late Kenneth T. Duncan and Georgeanna (Jaynes) Duncan. A lifelong resident of Millerton, he was deeply rooted in the community he loved and in the land that had been part of his family for generations.

Don earned an Associate Degree in Animal Husbandry from Cornell University and spent much of his life doing what he loved most—farming. As a proud farmer at Duncandale Farm, he carried on a family tradition while working tirelessly to preserve the farmland from future development, ensuring that it would remain open and productive for generations to come. He took special pride in sharing that work with his grandchildren, Gabriel, Braeden, and Ariana, who worked alongside him on the farm. He also worked for twelve years as a machine operator at Kimberly-Clark and later spent several years working alongside his son, Alex, as a carpenter.

A devoted member of the Millerton community, Don was active in numerous organizations, including the Millerton Presbyterian Church, the Millerton Grange, and the Millerton Lions Club. He was especially proud to be one of the Rounders of Riga, a tradition shared by his father and many of his lifelong friends. Each fall, he eagerly anticipated deer camp, where he enjoyed hunting, walking the woods, and spending time with friends who became like family.

Don was a loyal friend and mentor to many, generously sharing his time and support as a sponsor to fellow friends of Bill W. His quiet wisdom, steady presence, and willingness to help others left a lasting impact on countless lives, always offering encouragement, understanding, and hope whenever it was needed.

Nothing brought Don greater joy than his family. In April of 1967, he was set up with Sharon (Drake) on a blind date for his spring formal with Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. Six months later they were married, beginning a partnership that would span 58 years and become the foundation of a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and family. Together they raised three sons, Bruce (Wendy), Alex (Betsy), and Steven (Kim), and were blessed with seven grandchildren: Sydney, Chelsea, Bailey, Braeden, Tony, Gabriel, and Ariana.

When he wasn’t working, Don enjoyed fishing, hunting, solving Sudoku puzzles, spoiling his cats, and the many ski trips he shared with family and friends over the years. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures and found happiness in everyday moments.

In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, Don is survived by his sister, Patricia Flood of Millerton, and his brother, James Duncan (Annette) of Ballston Spa, New York, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother-in-law, Thomas Flood, his in-laws, Herbert and Helen Drake, and his brother-in-law, David Drake.

Those who knew Don will remember his kindness, humility, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to family, friends, faith, and community. His legacy lives on in the land he cherished, the family he loved, and the many lives he touched. And while we mourn his absence, we take comfort in imagining him reunited with his dear friend Bob—casting a line, swapping stories, and sharing a laugh once again.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many physicians, nurses, aides, and caregivers who supported Don throughout his journey. They are especially grateful to Dr. Ashita Talsania of Smilow Cancer Hospital in Torrington, whose extraordinary skill, compassion, dedication, and unwavering care over many years meant more to Don and his family than words can express.

All services will be held on Wednesday, July 1st at South Amenia Presbyterian Church, 229 South Amenia Road, Wassaic, NY. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 noon. A reception will follow in the church social hall.
Don was happiest in casual clothes and always greeted others with a smile. To celebrate the way he lived, the family encourages guests to wear colorful, casual clothing and to bring a smile of their own.

Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to Yale New Haven Hospital, Fund for Smilow Cancer Hospital, Office of Development, P.O. Box 1849, New Haven, CT 06508 to help advance research, treatment, and hope for individuals and families facing blood cancers, or to the Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation, 80 Washington Street, Suite 204, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. The family is deeply grateful for the exceptional care, comfort, and dignity provided by hospice during Don’s final days. Please note “Donald Duncan” in the memo line of any check donation. Online gifts may also be made through either organization.

The family also encourages those who can to donate blood. Don’s life was extended and enriched by the generosity of blood donors, and their gifts made a meaningful difference.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Scott D. Conklin Funeral Home, 37 Park Avenue, Millerton, NY 12546, www.conklinfuneralhome.com.