Individual Details
Duncan Charles GUERTIN
(31 May 1954 - 11 Nov 2005)
Obituary found online at the Las Vegas Review Journal.com
http://www.reviewjournal.com/obituaries/individual_display.jsp?obitID=4364453
"Published November 17, 2005.
GUERTIN, DUNCAN
Duncan Guertin, beloved husband, brother, friend, and communityleader, passed away at the UCLA Medical Center, Nov. 11, 2005, after ashort adventure with a rare form of cancer. Duncan was born May 31,1954, to Cornelia Duncan Guertin and Leo Albert Guertin, inWhittensville, Mass. He was raised on the Duncan Ranch in SuccessValley, Calif., living subsequently in Porterville, Fresno, andSacramento. He attended Herbert Hoover High School, Fresno CityCollege, and California State University Fresno, majoring in businessadministration. He had two brothers and three sisters. A Las Vegasresident since 1983, Duncan worked as a custom home builder throughthe 80's, and in the 90's, he worked with his wife in theentertainment business. In 2001, he began his career as a publicspeaker and seminar leader in the field of real estate investing,helping thousands of people all over the country. He was a very activechurch worker and a champion of philanthropic causes. Duncan lived byhis favorite quote, "Man is as valuable as he can serve others." (L.Ron Hubbard.) He dedicated his life to inspiring and empowering hismany students and friends to reach their good and noble goals. Duncanwas preceded in death by his mother and father; and his oldest sister,Catherine Nan Guertin. He is survived by his wife, of 17 years, Karen(Nelson Bell) Guertin; his brother, Steven L. and wife, CynthiaGuertin; brother, Donald G. Guertin; sister, Claudette E. and husband,Al Tomlin; sister, Celeste Rogers; as well as his five nephews. Amemorial service will be at 11 a.m. PST Sunday, Nov. 20, at CaesarsPalace, The Classico Chapel, Augustus Tower, 2nd Level. In lieu offlowers, contributions may be made to The Citizens' Commission onHuman Rights of Nevada (702-353-3278 or 702-390-8022) or the Have aPeaceful Heart Foundation (702-795-1020)."
Eulogy read at Duncan's memorial services, posted on line:
http://www.enlightenedmillionaireinstitute.com/duncan.php
"Today we commemorate the passing of a great friend, a true gentleman,an inspiration to all who knew him and in whose footsteps we could butaspire to tread.
Many of us have shed a tear or more in the past 2 weeks and many morewill be shed today. Few who know Duncan can hear of his leavingwithout an immense feeling of loss. Each of us has their own way inhandling the matter of death but I would be remiss if I did notattempt to convey what Duncan would like from you at this time. Forthough this is a day dedicated to memorializing his time here with us,it should not be a day spent in grief. Feel that emotion, yes, feel itdeeply, yes. How can one not feel immensely and with intensity whenone who had so much love to give is no longer here to give it. So forthose who need to cry, cry, and cry as much as you want. I canempathize with you on that. There is no shame in the display of a truefeeling of love, so even you big tough guys that may have stoodstaunchly and unfazed ? you have permission to leak at the eyes rightnow. But, cry not for Duncan, for he did not leave in sadness, fearnot for his well being, for he did not go afraid ? rather, weep in joyat having the chance to know greatness, tremble not in fear but ingratitude for all you have learnt from this man and recognize that hisdeath is not just the end of a great life but the beginning of an evengreater adventure.
When asked to write this eulogy I was confronted with the dauntingtask of encapsulating an energetic life that spans half a century intoa 10 minute dissertation that in some way could perhaps convey to allpresent what Duncan had accomplished and hopefully bring some reliefto those that still grieve. Upon assessing this task I came to theconclusion that it was impossible ? for several reasons. Oh, for sureI could list out his life in chronological order and tell you where hewas born and when and where he went to school etc, etc but you canread the general outline in the program and that information does notdepict Duncan, it is but the background wash that an artist wouldprepare a canvas for a masterpiece, the details of his background areunimportant when compared to the enlightenment that he brought others.However, let me qualify that by acknowledging the personalitiesinvolved in that background ? his surviving sisters Celeste andClaudette whom he spent his childhood in California with, his brotherStephen whom Duncan loved and admired, his brother Donny, whom heloved immensely and was truly a ?big brother? in every sense of theword and of course, the love of his life Karen, with whom he spent 17years in a relationship that was exemplifying to all who knew themboth. Like a story book romance, Duncan proposed to Karen onValentines Day after meeting her 2 weeks previously. They were married3 weeks later and Duncan told her their motto was ?It only getsbetter?. The subsequent 17 years he proved that motto true in waysthat neither of them could ever have imagined.
But to the rest of us, this is the private data of a public man. Hisimpact to most was not where he came from, or where he lived but inhow much he helped and that is what Duncan spent his life doing ?helping others. Whether it was in building custom homes and helpingpeople acquire them through the 80?s, working as a counselor andinstructor for his Church (which he did full time for several years)or working with his wife in the entertainment field in the nineties,or as a public speaker and seminar leader in this new century,Duncan?s overriding purpose was to help others and empower themthrough knowledge. He lived by his favorite quote from his mostrespected and cherished mentor, L. Ron Hubbard, who said ? ?Man is asvaluable as he can serve others.? ? and by this standard, I feel onething we could all agree on, Duncan was indeed an immensely valuableguy.
Though for the past few years Duncan?s main intent was to assistothers to achieve financial freedom through Real Estate investing inan enlightened manner, he taught much more than making money. As manycame to recognize -- Duncan?s example and wisdom was in the area ofcompassion for his fellow man. The first principle of his own RealEstate investing was not to harm another in a Real Estate Deal!Testament to his true ability is the outpouring of love andrecognition that Duncan was truly a man of spiritual wealth and thoughI could give you my personal perspective, let me take this chance toread but just a few of the many things that those present and othershave said in recent days: Oh, and by the way, this is an appropriatetime for tissues to be dispensed.
He was a true source of inspiration, and his soul will continue toguide us for many years to come.?
Duncan was such a positive influence in my life. I am thankful that Iknew him.?
He seemed indestructible to me. So strong, vibrant, kind, confident,noble, and what I'd call spiritually evolved. The kind of man youadmire and hope to emulate someday.?
Lucky are we to have met the most inspiring soul. He has forevertouched us with his light.?
Duncan enriched thousands of lives, for which we'll be eternallygrateful.?
My life is richer for having known Duncan. He will be my inspirationto do the same for the people around me.?
His vibrant vision, attitude and aura will continue on eternallythrough my soul and every person whose heart he touched.?
He is an amazing spirit that is bigger then life and full ofinspiration. He is the biggest Angel I have ever known. Although Ifeel so sad, every time I think of Duncan, I have a huge smile andfeel inspired about life.?
I am thankful for knowing a great man like Duncan but he will live onthrough you forever and all of us.?
Duncan, you have a wonderful, cheery inner light that has shined intothe world around you.?
We will always remember Duncan and the legacy of good he left behind.He has changed our lives for the good and countless others.?
Duncan Guertin, your light will forever illuminate the lives of allthe people who benefited from your presence here.?
I see him up there with that big, wonderful smile on his face lookingdown on us proudly realizing the depth and height of hisaccomplishments here on earth, the positive impact he's made in ourlives, and his continuing influence.?
Of course I could go on, but I think that the point is made. ThoughDuncan taught Real Estate investing he spoke wisdom and spiritualvalues that was recognized and heard by many. And that is the realproblem in categorizing this mans life in a few words. He did not justpass us by like so many in life, but like his Scottish heritage andScottish name ? Duncan ? whom he inherited from his mother (it was hermaiden name) and means ?Dark Warrior? he invaded our own darkness andbrought light and happiness to all he met and touched. Words do notnecessarily convey what Duncan meant to each of us, for everyone wasspecial in Duncan?s eyes. Few escaped the contagion of his enthusiasmfor life, even fewer still could be upset, angry or sad in Duncan?spresence.
When Duncan walked into a room he was not to be ignored. Apart fromhis immense physical stature there was a force of a different naturethat emanated. Despite his size and enthusiasm, Duncan did notoverwhelm or overawe but penetrated us with a feeling of joy and loveand made us want to live life as a game and to win ? win not againstothers but win with others.
Again, each of us has their own experience with this man. I cannoteither add or detract from your experience of Duncan. Perhaps I canhelp you to know that you have had a chance to view greatness. ThatDuncan?s impression on you was shared by the many lives that heimpacted for the better and the many people that will continue hislegacy as they too apply principles he espoused to help others intheir own way.
For many of us, Duncan?s passing came as a great shock. How could oneso vibrant and full of life be gone and with such rapidity? Certainlya man that had no vices, didn?t smoke, didn?t drink, ate healthy foodsand exercised should not be one to get cancer and die in a few weeks.Perhaps for some I can help in answering that question. There areperhaps as many different beliefs in this room as there are peoplepresent; which again is an indication of the spirit of Duncan,tolerant to the ideas and beliefs of all. In that light, I willattempt to alleviate as much confusion as I can.
I spent the last 3 weeks of Duncan life visiting him daily. In thelast 2 weeks I was mostly with him (at times around the clock) and Iperhaps am the best qualified to talk about how Duncan went throughas he would call it that adventure! He died like he lived withcourage, with dignity and with love. He was more concerned about thewelfare of others than he was about his own condition. He wasextremely lucid and knew everything that was occurring. He consultedhis doctors on what medications and procedures he would have and oftenknew more about what was happening than the attendant physicians.
Duncan had no fear of death. He knew what it was and what it held. Heknew that his life did not end with that of his body, that he was aneternal spirit and that he would continue. Whether one believes in ahigher power who chooses certain events or whether one believes that aman is fully responsible for his own destiny, realize that this was aman of integrity and purpose and that his dying had as much purpose ashis living. You do not need to know why that route was chosen if youcan have faith. In Scientology, Duncan?s religion, faith is part ofthe eighth dynamic or God Dynamic. So whether you believe his passingwas self determined or pre-determined, your understanding of itsreasons lies in your own faith and that is something between you andGod and not for others or me to encroach upon. So, if you areconfused, angry, upset or saddened, look not for the answer in theevent but to your own faith.
Duncan did not want others to be saddened by his leaving though heknew they would be. Perhaps the real reason we are sad when othersleave is that we didn?t get the chance to tell them how much theymeant to us or how much we loved them. Duncan knew that at some pointyou will get that chance again.
So in honor of Duncan and what he stood for I believe it isinappropriate for us to continue to grieve. He attacked life withenthusiasm and laughter and always encouraged others to do the same. Ithink it would be much more fitting to the memorial of the man, notfor a somber occasion where we all console ourselves and each otherfor a loss, but to revel in the celebration of a new adventure thatthe Dark Warrior has embarked upon.
Even though I gave permission for all to cry earlier, I would now liketo do something that you probably have never done at a funeral orMemorial Service but I know that The Dunk would much prefer and forthis you have to stand.
In ages past, when a champion warrior would prepare to go into battle,the villagers, townsfolk or city would line the streets and they wouldshout encouragement and cheer. So to end this eulogy, I want for youall to think of Duncan ? and anyone that can remember Duncan being sadis allowed to cry, and all that can remember Duncan happy, you have tocheer and clap and let the intensity of your feeling for Duncan beshown in the volume of your battle cries. As he may be far away I wantyou to really let him hear you!"
http://www.reviewjournal.com/obituaries/individual_display.jsp?obitID=4364453
"Published November 17, 2005.
GUERTIN, DUNCAN
Duncan Guertin, beloved husband, brother, friend, and communityleader, passed away at the UCLA Medical Center, Nov. 11, 2005, after ashort adventure with a rare form of cancer. Duncan was born May 31,1954, to Cornelia Duncan Guertin and Leo Albert Guertin, inWhittensville, Mass. He was raised on the Duncan Ranch in SuccessValley, Calif., living subsequently in Porterville, Fresno, andSacramento. He attended Herbert Hoover High School, Fresno CityCollege, and California State University Fresno, majoring in businessadministration. He had two brothers and three sisters. A Las Vegasresident since 1983, Duncan worked as a custom home builder throughthe 80's, and in the 90's, he worked with his wife in theentertainment business. In 2001, he began his career as a publicspeaker and seminar leader in the field of real estate investing,helping thousands of people all over the country. He was a very activechurch worker and a champion of philanthropic causes. Duncan lived byhis favorite quote, "Man is as valuable as he can serve others." (L.Ron Hubbard.) He dedicated his life to inspiring and empowering hismany students and friends to reach their good and noble goals. Duncanwas preceded in death by his mother and father; and his oldest sister,Catherine Nan Guertin. He is survived by his wife, of 17 years, Karen(Nelson Bell) Guertin; his brother, Steven L. and wife, CynthiaGuertin; brother, Donald G. Guertin; sister, Claudette E. and husband,Al Tomlin; sister, Celeste Rogers; as well as his five nephews. Amemorial service will be at 11 a.m. PST Sunday, Nov. 20, at CaesarsPalace, The Classico Chapel, Augustus Tower, 2nd Level. In lieu offlowers, contributions may be made to The Citizens' Commission onHuman Rights of Nevada (702-353-3278 or 702-390-8022) or the Have aPeaceful Heart Foundation (702-795-1020)."
Eulogy read at Duncan's memorial services, posted on line:
http://www.enlightenedmillionaireinstitute.com/duncan.php
"Today we commemorate the passing of a great friend, a true gentleman,an inspiration to all who knew him and in whose footsteps we could butaspire to tread.
Many of us have shed a tear or more in the past 2 weeks and many morewill be shed today. Few who know Duncan can hear of his leavingwithout an immense feeling of loss. Each of us has their own way inhandling the matter of death but I would be remiss if I did notattempt to convey what Duncan would like from you at this time. Forthough this is a day dedicated to memorializing his time here with us,it should not be a day spent in grief. Feel that emotion, yes, feel itdeeply, yes. How can one not feel immensely and with intensity whenone who had so much love to give is no longer here to give it. So forthose who need to cry, cry, and cry as much as you want. I canempathize with you on that. There is no shame in the display of a truefeeling of love, so even you big tough guys that may have stoodstaunchly and unfazed ? you have permission to leak at the eyes rightnow. But, cry not for Duncan, for he did not leave in sadness, fearnot for his well being, for he did not go afraid ? rather, weep in joyat having the chance to know greatness, tremble not in fear but ingratitude for all you have learnt from this man and recognize that hisdeath is not just the end of a great life but the beginning of an evengreater adventure.
When asked to write this eulogy I was confronted with the dauntingtask of encapsulating an energetic life that spans half a century intoa 10 minute dissertation that in some way could perhaps convey to allpresent what Duncan had accomplished and hopefully bring some reliefto those that still grieve. Upon assessing this task I came to theconclusion that it was impossible ? for several reasons. Oh, for sureI could list out his life in chronological order and tell you where hewas born and when and where he went to school etc, etc but you canread the general outline in the program and that information does notdepict Duncan, it is but the background wash that an artist wouldprepare a canvas for a masterpiece, the details of his background areunimportant when compared to the enlightenment that he brought others.However, let me qualify that by acknowledging the personalitiesinvolved in that background ? his surviving sisters Celeste andClaudette whom he spent his childhood in California with, his brotherStephen whom Duncan loved and admired, his brother Donny, whom heloved immensely and was truly a ?big brother? in every sense of theword and of course, the love of his life Karen, with whom he spent 17years in a relationship that was exemplifying to all who knew themboth. Like a story book romance, Duncan proposed to Karen onValentines Day after meeting her 2 weeks previously. They were married3 weeks later and Duncan told her their motto was ?It only getsbetter?. The subsequent 17 years he proved that motto true in waysthat neither of them could ever have imagined.
But to the rest of us, this is the private data of a public man. Hisimpact to most was not where he came from, or where he lived but inhow much he helped and that is what Duncan spent his life doing ?helping others. Whether it was in building custom homes and helpingpeople acquire them through the 80?s, working as a counselor andinstructor for his Church (which he did full time for several years)or working with his wife in the entertainment field in the nineties,or as a public speaker and seminar leader in this new century,Duncan?s overriding purpose was to help others and empower themthrough knowledge. He lived by his favorite quote from his mostrespected and cherished mentor, L. Ron Hubbard, who said ? ?Man is asvaluable as he can serve others.? ? and by this standard, I feel onething we could all agree on, Duncan was indeed an immensely valuableguy.
Though for the past few years Duncan?s main intent was to assistothers to achieve financial freedom through Real Estate investing inan enlightened manner, he taught much more than making money. As manycame to recognize -- Duncan?s example and wisdom was in the area ofcompassion for his fellow man. The first principle of his own RealEstate investing was not to harm another in a Real Estate Deal!Testament to his true ability is the outpouring of love andrecognition that Duncan was truly a man of spiritual wealth and thoughI could give you my personal perspective, let me take this chance toread but just a few of the many things that those present and othershave said in recent days: Oh, and by the way, this is an appropriatetime for tissues to be dispensed.
He was a true source of inspiration, and his soul will continue toguide us for many years to come.?
Duncan was such a positive influence in my life. I am thankful that Iknew him.?
He seemed indestructible to me. So strong, vibrant, kind, confident,noble, and what I'd call spiritually evolved. The kind of man youadmire and hope to emulate someday.?
Lucky are we to have met the most inspiring soul. He has forevertouched us with his light.?
Duncan enriched thousands of lives, for which we'll be eternallygrateful.?
My life is richer for having known Duncan. He will be my inspirationto do the same for the people around me.?
His vibrant vision, attitude and aura will continue on eternallythrough my soul and every person whose heart he touched.?
He is an amazing spirit that is bigger then life and full ofinspiration. He is the biggest Angel I have ever known. Although Ifeel so sad, every time I think of Duncan, I have a huge smile andfeel inspired about life.?
I am thankful for knowing a great man like Duncan but he will live onthrough you forever and all of us.?
Duncan, you have a wonderful, cheery inner light that has shined intothe world around you.?
We will always remember Duncan and the legacy of good he left behind.He has changed our lives for the good and countless others.?
Duncan Guertin, your light will forever illuminate the lives of allthe people who benefited from your presence here.?
I see him up there with that big, wonderful smile on his face lookingdown on us proudly realizing the depth and height of hisaccomplishments here on earth, the positive impact he's made in ourlives, and his continuing influence.?
Of course I could go on, but I think that the point is made. ThoughDuncan taught Real Estate investing he spoke wisdom and spiritualvalues that was recognized and heard by many. And that is the realproblem in categorizing this mans life in a few words. He did not justpass us by like so many in life, but like his Scottish heritage andScottish name ? Duncan ? whom he inherited from his mother (it was hermaiden name) and means ?Dark Warrior? he invaded our own darkness andbrought light and happiness to all he met and touched. Words do notnecessarily convey what Duncan meant to each of us, for everyone wasspecial in Duncan?s eyes. Few escaped the contagion of his enthusiasmfor life, even fewer still could be upset, angry or sad in Duncan?spresence.
When Duncan walked into a room he was not to be ignored. Apart fromhis immense physical stature there was a force of a different naturethat emanated. Despite his size and enthusiasm, Duncan did notoverwhelm or overawe but penetrated us with a feeling of joy and loveand made us want to live life as a game and to win ? win not againstothers but win with others.
Again, each of us has their own experience with this man. I cannoteither add or detract from your experience of Duncan. Perhaps I canhelp you to know that you have had a chance to view greatness. ThatDuncan?s impression on you was shared by the many lives that heimpacted for the better and the many people that will continue hislegacy as they too apply principles he espoused to help others intheir own way.
For many of us, Duncan?s passing came as a great shock. How could oneso vibrant and full of life be gone and with such rapidity? Certainlya man that had no vices, didn?t smoke, didn?t drink, ate healthy foodsand exercised should not be one to get cancer and die in a few weeks.Perhaps for some I can help in answering that question. There areperhaps as many different beliefs in this room as there are peoplepresent; which again is an indication of the spirit of Duncan,tolerant to the ideas and beliefs of all. In that light, I willattempt to alleviate as much confusion as I can.
I spent the last 3 weeks of Duncan life visiting him daily. In thelast 2 weeks I was mostly with him (at times around the clock) and Iperhaps am the best qualified to talk about how Duncan went throughas he would call it that adventure! He died like he lived withcourage, with dignity and with love. He was more concerned about thewelfare of others than he was about his own condition. He wasextremely lucid and knew everything that was occurring. He consultedhis doctors on what medications and procedures he would have and oftenknew more about what was happening than the attendant physicians.
Duncan had no fear of death. He knew what it was and what it held. Heknew that his life did not end with that of his body, that he was aneternal spirit and that he would continue. Whether one believes in ahigher power who chooses certain events or whether one believes that aman is fully responsible for his own destiny, realize that this was aman of integrity and purpose and that his dying had as much purpose ashis living. You do not need to know why that route was chosen if youcan have faith. In Scientology, Duncan?s religion, faith is part ofthe eighth dynamic or God Dynamic. So whether you believe his passingwas self determined or pre-determined, your understanding of itsreasons lies in your own faith and that is something between you andGod and not for others or me to encroach upon. So, if you areconfused, angry, upset or saddened, look not for the answer in theevent but to your own faith.
Duncan did not want others to be saddened by his leaving though heknew they would be. Perhaps the real reason we are sad when othersleave is that we didn?t get the chance to tell them how much theymeant to us or how much we loved them. Duncan knew that at some pointyou will get that chance again.
So in honor of Duncan and what he stood for I believe it isinappropriate for us to continue to grieve. He attacked life withenthusiasm and laughter and always encouraged others to do the same. Ithink it would be much more fitting to the memorial of the man, notfor a somber occasion where we all console ourselves and each otherfor a loss, but to revel in the celebration of a new adventure thatthe Dark Warrior has embarked upon.
Even though I gave permission for all to cry earlier, I would now liketo do something that you probably have never done at a funeral orMemorial Service but I know that The Dunk would much prefer and forthis you have to stand.
In ages past, when a champion warrior would prepare to go into battle,the villagers, townsfolk or city would line the streets and they wouldshout encouragement and cheer. So to end this eulogy, I want for youall to think of Duncan ? and anyone that can remember Duncan being sadis allowed to cry, and all that can remember Duncan happy, you have tocheer and clap and let the intensity of your feeling for Duncan beshown in the volume of your battle cries. As he may be far away I wantyou to really let him hear you!"
Events
| Birth | 31 May 1954 | East Douglas, Worcester Co., Massachusetts | |||
| Residence | Bet 1983 and 2005 | Las Vegas, Clark Co., Nevada | |||
| Religion | 2005 | Scientology | |||
| Death | 11 Nov 2005 | UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles Co., California |  | ||
| Reference No | 1459 |
Families
| Spouse | Living |
| Father | Leo Albert GUERTIN (1923 - 2003) |
| Mother | Cornelia Hayne DUNCAN (1915 - 1967) |
| Sibling | Catherine Nan GUERTIN (1946 - 1967) |
| Sibling | Living |
| Sibling | Living |
| Sibling | Living |
| Sibling | Living |
Endnotes
1. Social Security Death Index.