Edmond J. Duquette, 84, of Johnston, RI, a retired businessman, died peacefully at home on October 3, his family by his side.
He was the beloved husband, best friend, and soulmate of Ethel Duquette; they had been married 56 years. He was born in New York City, the only son of Edmond V. and Geraldine (Schuler) Duquette. A graduate of BMC Durfee High School, he grew up in Fall River and then raised his family in Johnston.
Mr. Duquette was president of Duquette & Associates, Inc., a management consulting and executive search firm, until his retirement in 2002.
Earlier, he held senior management positions in human resources and labor relations in the financial services and manufacturing industries, including the former Collyer Wire in Lincoln, RI. He was active in Toastmasters International for many years and served as President of the Rhode Island Chapter for two years in the early 70's.
An Air Force veteran, he served from 1957 to 1961 including three years in France and Germany, as a technician for NATO's European communications system.
From 1981 to 2001 he was associated with Bryant University as an adjunct instructor, developing and conducting programs in employment and human resource management and was active in numerous human resource organizations.
The most prepared and organized man you could ever meet, Ed was funny, a creative thinker, and possessed a zest for life. His favorite pastime was ballroom dancing with his wife. Dance brought him great purpose and joy, even in his later years when it required caution and some assistance.
He loved music, as well as classic movies, WWII history, the ocean (especially when viewing it from Block Island or Brenton Pt. Park in Newport), and dogs.
A lifelong learner, Ed strove to understand others through respectful conversations, reading, and news gathering. He was a good friend to others, and he valued his relationships—old and new.
Besides his wife, Ed leaves devoted daughters, Lisa Duquette of New York, and Karen Duquette of Johnston, and grandson and namesake, Matthew Edmond, lovingly known to his Pepe as "Goombie".
His Funeral service will be held Friday, October 6th in the Anderson-Winfield Home at 6:30pm. Visitation Friday, October 6th from 4pm - 6:30pm. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to the RISPCA.
