Dr. Ray Duncan MD

Ray was born in Minnesota on April 5, 1939. He was the second oldest of 5 and grew up on a family farm. Ray loved learning and had high academic aims but no wealth. He received a scholarship and graduated from Bethel College in Minnesota, then served briefly in the Army, stationed stateside as a medic, then 6 years in the Army Reserves. He worked his way through medical school at the University of Minnesota, followed by a pediatric residency at the University of Florida. He completed a second residency, this time in pediatric pathology at Yale, stating that he wanted to understand disease at the cellular level. Then on to Georgetown for a fellowship in pediatric oncology.

Afterward, he left academic medicine and opened a private practice in Naples, Esther's hometown. Ray served families in this community for 47 years and was gratified when his original patients later brought their babies to him as patients. He had started getting a third generation when he retired at age 83.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, 2 siblings, and his beloved stepson, Alan.

He is survived by his wife, 3 children, 6 grandchildren, and 2 brothers, Richard and Roger.

He was blessed with a good tenor singing voice and, along with Esther, he enjoyed singing in the Philharmonic Chorale for 10 years.

Honoring Ray's wishes, there will be no service.

If desired, memorials may be made to Ray's favorite charity, casacolibri.org, where Esther volunteered in remote Guatemala for 15 years among the Mayans, promoting health in mothers and children, or to the charity of your choice.