Teddy was born in Racine on April 11, 1954, to William and Stella (nee: Resch) Duchac. He graduated from St. Francis DeSales Seminary of Milwaukee in 1972. Following graduation, Teddy continued his studies in theology with the intentions of becoming a Catholic priest. That was, until he met the love of his life, Jane Marie Berchem. They were united in marriage on November 7, 1975, at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in Union Grove.For many years, Teddy has been employed by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. Since 2000, he has served as a corrections officer at Racine Youthful Offenders Correctional Facility, with the current rank of Sergeant, not only providing discipline but “life guidance” in getting our youth back on track.
Teddy was a member of St. Lucy Catholic Church. He loved nothing more than being with his family. Passionate about his motorcycle, Teddy and Jane recently rode 3,300 miles on their bike, touring throughout the United States, and creating a lifetime of memories. He also liked to skydive and did so with his family and friends numerous times. Although to become a priest was not God’s plan for him, Teddy ministered to all those he met, encouraging them to live life to the fullest, every day, just as he did.
Most of all, he was a devoted husband, proud father and passionately involved grandfather who always put his family first. As great as the loss of Teddy is to us, much greater is the glory for Him. He will be sorely missed.
Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 33 years, Jane; their children, Julie (Ryan) Silich of Racine, Lisa (Rick) Helland of Kenosha, Jason (Leslie) Duchac and Matthew (Kristen) Duchac, both of Racine; grandchildren, Makennah Ingle (whom Teddy affectionately called “Pookie”) and her dad, Jason Ingle; Rayna Helland, Megan Duchac, Paige VanDusen, Logan and Taylor Staples; and was anxiously awaiting the birth of his 7th grandchild – due November 23, 2008; his father, William Duchac; brothers and sisters, Rose and Jim Patch, Michael Duchac, Scott (Sue) Duchac, Joe (Kathy) Duchac, Dave (Nancy) Duchac, Colleen (Jerry) Jossart, Tom Duchac, Jon (Foulla) Duchac and Brian (Donna) Duchac; father-in-law, Leo Berchem; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Debbie Duchac, Luanne (William) Dorsey, Steve (Linda) Berchem, Michele Berchem and Harold Deschler; and by many, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name including his fellow officers at RYOCF.
Teddy was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Stella; brothers, Patrick, Timothy and Mark Duchac; and mother-in-law, Delores Berchem.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 26, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating and Deacon Dan Burmeister assisting. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday from 5-8 p.m. and, again in the funeral home, on Friday from 9-10 a.m. with a procession beginning at 10 a.m. to St. Lucy Church. In accordance with Teddy’s wishes, cremation will follow the services. In memory of Teddy, memorials may be directed to his family for the future education of his precious grandchildren – a contribution he entirely would have wanted.
Jane would like to extend her heartfelt gratitude to all her family and friends who have been so supportive during this tragic loss. Words could never express her true appreciation. God bless all of you!
Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
4600 County Line Rd., Racine (262) 552-9000
3 comments:
My father was a great man as everyone who has ever met him or has heard of him knows. The world is a little smaller now without him here but I know heaven just got ten times bigger and ten times funnier now that he is up there watching over all of us, I guess they needed a comic relief up there or something, I miss him dearly and love him greatly and he will live on inside all of us in the wisdom he tought and the humor he brought. I love you dad, rest in peace. Thank you to all friends and family who have been so supportive through this difficult time.
There are no words to express the loss of my Uncle Ted. All the words in the english dictionary don't even come close to the kind of life my uncle lived. Before anything else, the importance of his family came first. That is one of the most important lessons my Uncle taught me, was the importance of family. I am so lucky to have such a big family, through the good times and the bad. They are always there, and always will be. My uncle is still with us today, guiding us through every aspect of our lives. To all who have shown support and continued support, it is greatly appreciated by all. From this day forward, it is all for my uncle. -Kyle Duchac...KP
I went to school with Ted back at DeSales. He was a lot of fun and a very positive person. It is sad to think that he has passed at such a young age. Ted obviously lived a full life since those days at DeSales. My condolences on your sudden loss. You can see his classmates from DeSales at our Class of 1972 website: www.nathanmueller.com/desales
Sincerely,
Alan S. Wisniewski, Major, USAF (Retired)
St. Francis DeSales Seminary High School, Class of 1972
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