Doris Don Duplechein Jr.

Doris Duplechein Jr. was born July 1, 1924 in Mermentau Louisiana to Doris Sr. and Hester Duplechein. Don was one or four children born of this union. Don grew up and thrived in rural Louisiana and upon graduation from high school he joined the army.

His military assignment took him to Newport News Virginia where he met Jerry Reavis. Their courtship led to marriage on May 20, 1945. This loving union has lasted 71 years.

Doris spent 12 years in the army. He was part of the segregated 567th Ambulance unit. They were among the first units to liberate Jewish prisoners from the Dachau Nazi concentration camp. In later years Doris spoke at LA District schools and told of his experiences. He wanted to be sure younger generations knew of the atrocities of the war and never forgot the horrors of the concentration camps.

In the early 1950’s Doris and Jerry moved to Pacoima California where they lived for 54 years. Doris worked for the Los Angeles School Board for 28 years. In 2006 they relocated to Lancaster California.

During his years in Pacoima Doris and Jerry became well known and loved by their neighbors. They hosted many domino and card games in their home.

Doris was a dependable man of his word. Friends and family knew they could call on him when they needed help. He would change tires, do handyman jobs, give someone a ride to work, or do whatever was needed.

Doris enjoyed fishing, baseball, horse racing, reading the newspaper, and spending holidays and special times with his family. He never forgot to buy his weekly lottery tickets. His favorite TV shows were Mike and Molly and Family Feud. He loved potatoes and sausage for breakfast and dinner had to include rice every day. One of his favorite girls was Lilly the family dog. His Jambalaya recipe has been enjoyed by family and friends.

Doris leaves a legacy of leadership, honesty, family values and friendship. His friends and family mourn his passing but celebrate his life.

Doris was preceded in death by his siblings, Della, Doyle, Lawrence, and Direll Duplechein.

Doris is survived by his loving wife Jerry Duplechein. His son Horace Duplechein, and his Wife Irit, and his Daughter Deloris Milien. Doris was the loving grandfather of Andrea McIver and her husband Carl, Patrice Johnson and her husband Odean, Max Milien and his wife Lisa, and Yvonne Cyrus and her husband Reginald. Doris was also the loving great grandfather of Kristian Fortune, Jonathan Steward, Deja, Tijera, and Monzellha Johnson, Delores, Lauren, and Eva Cyrus, Max and Myles Milian and Tyler Spencer. He is also survived by a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Arrangements under the direction of Joshua Memorial Park & Mortuary, Lancaster, California.