Michael Frank Duge, Jr.

Michael was born on December 15, 1973, in El Paso, Texas, to Michael Frank Duge, Sr. and Linda Duge. From a young age, Michael carried a vivid imagination and a joyful, kid-at-heart spirit. Throughout his life, he often slipped into the worlds he created—playing out heroic adventures, imagining epic battles, or wandering the backyard lost in a story only he could see. He loved Star Wars, Superman, and comic books, and his creativity found its way into many parts of his life, including traditions like decorating for Halloween, which always reflected his playful heart. That same playful heart made him naturally charismatic—he connected easily with strangers, made friends effortlessly, and had a warm presence that people gravitated toward.

More than anything, Michael loved his family. He often expressed how proud he was of them, and how they were his “everything.” His love for the people closest to him was constant and sincere. Those who knew him also knew his generous heart, his loyalty, and the way he held on to the things—and the people—he cherished.

Michael’s faith brought him comfort, and in the days before his passing, he was lovingly reminded of God’s grace and the promise of eternal life. This reassurance has given his family peace, knowing he left this world with renewed hope. We imagine him now reunited in Heaven with his father, Michael Sr., and their beloved Beau—the longtime family dog who had a special way of bringing everyone together. We picture the three of them sitting on a couch, Beau tucked happily between them, watching wrestling, one of the few things father and son always enjoyed together.

He is preceded in death by his father, Michael Duge, Sr.; his uncle, William Duge Jr.; his paternal grandparents, William Duge Sr. and Anne Janke; and his maternal grandparents, Richard and Joyce Friedli, cousin, Darren Duge.

Survivors include his mother, Linda Duge of Waco; sister, Kelly Duge Davis and husband Chris of Austin; brother, Richard Duge and wife Heather of Dallas; brother, Matthew Duge of Waco; nephews and nieces, Colby and Addison of Austin, Elliekate and Jack of Dallas; aunts and uncles, Richard and Lisa Friedli of China Spring, Lorilee and Scott Kolb of Woodway, Dori Domon of New York, Ann Duge in England; cousins, Josh and Deberina Atkinson and children, Richard and Megan Friedli, Kurt and Lisa Friedli and children, Matthew Kolb, Mandy Gearty, and Donna Duge.

As we reflect on Michael’s life, we take comfort in the promise of Scripture—that through faith in Christ, we are given peace and everlasting life.

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions… I go to prepare a place for you.”

— John 14:1–6