RIP - Duane Wellington - 1911

extrememarine · Jan 20, 2023

Sharing this here - initially posted by Mark / WheatonFJR elsewhere.

-Wayne

I have tears rolling down my cheeks as I type this, but I have to get this news out. Duane's phone called me and I answered, and Marilee was on the line. She gave me news that I NEVER ever wanted to hear. Duane died yesterday. He was at work and about to clock out yesterday afternoon when it happened. The coroner's prelim indication was that it was a coronary event. Other workers performed CPR after he collapsed, but to no avail. Duane was 56 and no apparent health issues.

Marilee had lunch with Duane yesterday and asked him when he would be heading home, he said about 3:40. It was right about then when this happened. I will share more later, as I get time and get past the trauma.

I can't talk right now because work is upside down until tomorrow evening, but Marilee wanted me to get this out to his FJR friends online. She said that she will update me as to when the service will be, but it will be in Simpsonville, SC.

I can't believe my riding buddy and good friend is gone! I am wrecked.

Please pray for Marilee and her daughters as they struggle with this!

-Mark

SwollenRaccoon · Jan 20, 2023

Extraordinarily sad. God bless his soul.

Auburn · Jan 20, 2023

Shocked. Never met in person, but always enjoyed reading his posts. RIP Duane.

hppants · Jan 20, 2023

He was a wonderful person that lived a full life. A man of few words, comfortable in his silence. When he spoke, it was meaningful, thoughtful, and definitely worth listening to. He loved his wife and traveled with her extensively on the FJR.

He had his priorities straight, but that wasn't enough. At 56 years young, he died way too soon.

We only get one, my friends. And when it's gone, that it. Make sure you are using your only one the very best way you can.

Stay thirsty, my friends....

escapefjrtist · Jan 20, 2023

Sad news, RIP Duane.

~G

Bugnatr · Jan 22, 2023

Auburn said:
Shocked. Never met in person, but always enjoyed reading his posts. RIP Duane.

His RR's were excellent. His wonderful wife Marilee was the pillion photographer. I met them a couple times out west at YFO and the Ruben run plus a dinner with them at Marks place in SC. A good man gone too soon.