Obituary of Bernard John Duffy

Bernard John Duffy, 69, of Tacoma, WA passed away Friday, July 31, 2020.  Ben was born in Newark, New Jersey on November 5, 1950, the eldest son of Bernard and Cecilia (Lynch) Duffy. He graduated from Harrison High School in 1968 and continued his education at Rutgers University.  Ben entered the US Navy where he bravely served his country during the Vietnam War. He married his wife Usun in 1981 and raised their children in Port Hueneme, CA, Norfolk, VA, and Yuma, AZ before settling in Tacoma in 1990. 

Ben furthered his education at Pacific Lutheran University, graduating in 1996 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.  Following graduation, Ben began his 24 year career as a mental health counselor at Western State Hospital.

Ben is remembered as a loving father, supportive husband, and selfless provider for his family.  His intelligence, kindness, and gentle demeanor will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Usun, daughter Michelle (Cory), son Colin (Kristina), and his grandchildren Cory, Jr., Cecilia, Reese, and Evelyn. He is also survived by his brother Kevin (Carolyn), brother David (Kathleen), Sister Dolores (Edward) and sister Mary (Dennis). He was preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Cecilia. 

Services have been arranged with Edwards Memorial. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2020 from 9:30-11:00 am followed by a private chapel service and interment in the Tahoma National Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or the charity of one’s choice.