David J. ‘Digger’ Duquette

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MARQUETTE - David J. "Digger" Duquette, 61, of 1905 Bancroft St., Marquette, entered eternal life Monday afternoon, July 21, 2008, at Marquette General Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He had been hospitalized since June 28.

David was born May 16, 1947, in Marquette, a son of Alex and Ellen (Swanson) Duquette. He was raised in Marquette and was a 1966 graduate of Graveraet High School. Dave served his country during the Vietnam War, receiving a Purple Heart for bravery in action. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Marquette where he married the love of his life, Patricia Nadeau. The couple made their home at Lake Enchantment. Throughout the years, Dave was employed at various garages specializing in transmission repair, retiring from Riverside Auto due to ill health. David was an excellent father and grandfather and he loved his family with all his heart. In his leisure, he greatly enjoyed almost endless woodworking, giving his creations to family and friends. His Sundays were always centered on the Thunder Valley Raceway in Sands where he was his son's number one fan, supporter and crew chief. Dave was also an avid NASCAR and Detroit Red Wings hockey fan.

David is survived by his son, Dan Duquette, and daughter, Amy (Nick Hamari) Duquette, both of Marquette; his grandchildren, who loved him as "Papa", Tyler Garrow, Alex Duquette and Olivia Hamari; his sister, Janice (Deloyd) Cousineau of Marquette; brothers, John Duquette of Baraga and Jay (Karen) Duquette of Okemos; several nieces and nephews; and best friend, Bob Beals of Marquette. Dave was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call at St. Christopher Catholic Church on Thursday, July 24, beginning at 11 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 1 p.m. Thursday in the church with the Rev. Jeff Johnson as celebrant. Pallbearers will be Jerry and Paul Duquette, Bruce Smith, Bob Beals and Norman Jacobson. David's grandchildren will serve as honorary escorts. A reception will be held in the church fellowship hall. Burial will be made in the Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Lung Association.

The Fassbender Funeral Home is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswanson. com