He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 65 years, Maria Duran and step-daughter, Mary Lou Sanchez; his mother, father and five brothers, Albert, Patricio, Epifano, Rojerio and George Duran; two sisters, Estella Rowland and Mary Ann Jacquez.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Evelyn Duran Bracy; four brothers, Joseph, Samuel, Jacob, and Martin Duran One sister, Ruth Luna along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and loving nieces and nephews.
John Duran "Tio Juan" enlisted into the military at the young age of 15 years old. He proudly served in the Army. At the age of 17 years old, during World War ll he saw combat in the blistering waste of North Africa.
Later as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division he participated in a combat jump into Sicily where he was shot twice and held prisoner by German soldiers for twenty two months. Once liberated and recovered he went on to serve three tours in the Korean War. He was awarded the Silver Star twice, the Bronze Star twice, and the Purple Heart three times. He also holds eight battle stars from World War II, and four from the Korean War.
In his 97 years of life, his stories were so captivating. It revealed his gentle but courageous character. He like many others who were part of "America's Greatest Generation" epitomized a dedication to patriotisms, citizenship, duty and service. He was a decorated Army Veteran who would proudly wear his signature WWII and/or POW cap yet always remained humble about his honors.
Visitation will be held at Funeraria del Angel-Everhart, 4901 Everhart Rd., Corpus Christi, TX on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 pm that same evening. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 9:00 am at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, 3502 Saratoga Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX with interment to follow at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, 9974 I-37, Corpus Christi, TX at 11:00 am.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.CageMillsFuneralDirectors.com and our Facebook page: Cage Mills Funeral Home.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.11.3