January 3, 1959 – March 8, 2026
Edward Charles Duffett, 67, of Silver Lake, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.
Ed was born January 3, 1959, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to Thomas F. and Bernice L. (O’Brien) Duffett. He grew up in western Pennsylvania, where his love of the mountains, trains, and the outdoors first began. Those interests would stay with him throughout his life.
For nearly 40 years, Ed worked as a skilled carpenter specializing in cabinetmaking. He had a remarkable talent for working with his hands, creating beautiful pieces that reflected both his craftsmanship and his pride in his work. Like his father before him, he believed in building things the right way and took great satisfaction in creating something lasting.
Ed spent the last 30 years of his life in Silver Lake, Wisconsin, where he built a life centered around the people and passions he loved most. He found his greatest peace on the water. Summer mornings often began with Ed out on his pontoon boat, fishing as the sun came up. Being on the lake was one of his favorite places to be, and he took every opportunity to enjoy it.
At home, Ed loved spending time in his garden, especially growing cucumbers that he proudly turned into homemade pickles each year in honor of his beloved son, Lance. He also had a lifelong love for HO model trains and could often be found carefully building and designing model railroad layouts, complete with hand-painted details and accessories.
Music was always playing wherever Ed was. With an eclectic taste, rock music filled the background of many days, and he proudly called himself a Jimmy Buffett Parrot Head.
One of his proudest moments in recent years was being able to own and drive a yellow 1972 Volkswagen Beetle convertible with his sister, Susan.
Above all else, Ed’s greatest pride and purpose in life was being a father. His children became his world, and he loved them deeply and unconditionally. He was a steady presence in their lives; supportive, proud, and always there when they needed him. To his children, he was Poppa, a name that carried the love, strength, and guidance he gave so freely.
To his friends, he was simply Ed, to his siblings he was Eddie, and to his children he was Poppa. He loved deeply and wholeheartedly, and his family meant everything to him.
Ed is now reunited with his beloved son, Lance Duffett, who preceded him in death.
He will be deeply missed by his wife, Aminta Duffett; his daughter, Bristel Duffett; his siblings, Susan Carter, David Duffett, Robert (Karen) Duffett, and Ronald (Vickie) Duffett; and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Horizon Hospice for their compassion and care.
Private services were held.
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