Linda Gail Duncan

Linda was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, to Clifford and Maxine Van Holden Best, and was the middle daughter of three, between sisters Barbara and Margaret. She graduated from Langenburg High School and went on to the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where she earned her teaching degree.

In August 1963, Linda married David Bruce Duncan. Together they lived in Moose Jaw and Moosomin, Saskatchewan, where they raised their three children, Jodi, Kristi, and Tim. In 1970, Bruce and Linda moved to Guelph, Ontario, where Bruce began working at the University of Guelph.

Linda taught elementary school in Moose Jaw and later in Guelph. In Guelph, Bruce and Linda founded the Rockwood Equine Clinic and operated a small farm, raising everything from horses to hamsters. Linda was the heart of the operation — a full-time mother, exceptional cook, chief bookkeeper for the clinic, groundskeeper, groom, farmer and the person who ensured everything ran smoothly.

Linda was active in her community. She enjoyed playing tennis and served as membership chair for the Rockwood Tennis Club. She loved playing cards, volunteering with Meals on Wheels, and supporting her children on school trips and activities.

In 2002, Bruce and Linda sold the farm and moved into Guelph, where Linda volunteered at the community garden and remained closely involved with her daughters and their growing families. After several years, Bruce and Linda moved to Peterborough to be closer to Jodi and her family. There, Linda once again immersed herself in community gardening and enjoyed spending time at the slot machines.

Linda was a devoted “Nana” to her five grandchildren: Jake, Tori (Jodi and Paul), Brady, Annie, and Tyler (Kristi and Jerry), and a proud great-Nana to Luke, Lily (Tori and Riley), and Lennon (Jake and Megan). She cherished visits from family and stayed closely connected through texting with everyone she loved.

Linda will be laid to rest in Guelph, Ontario. A private family funeral will be held.

Linda’s family would like to thank the palliative care team at PRHC, the team at Hospice Peterborough and Dr, Morelli for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations and e-cards in Linda’s memory may be made to Hospice Peterborough, in gratitude for the compassionate care and support provided to Linda and her family:

https://www.hospicepeterborough.org/giving-and-events-overview/donate-now/

Family Tribute

In Loving Memory of Linda Gail Duncan

Linda was the kind of person who quietly did everything — for her family, her community, and anyone who needed help. Whether she was teaching children, keeping the books at the equine clinic, tending gardens, or caring for her family, Linda gave her time and energy with generosity and love.

She found joy in simple pleasures: tennis, cards, gardening, volunteering, and staying connected with those she loved. As Nana and Great-Nana, she took immense pride in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, welcoming every visit and keeping in touch through thoughtful messages and texts.

Linda’s life was defined by dedication, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to family. Though she is deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the lives she nurtured, the communities she served, and the family who will forever carry her love with them.

Forever loved. Forever remembered.