Racine- Theodore “Teddy” Edward Duchac, 54, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, September 19, 2008 as the result of a heart attack. 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 3300 miles on their bike, touring throughout the United States, and creating a lifetime of memories. He also liked to sky dive 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, everyday, 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 am 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 pm and, again in the funeral home, on Friday from 9-10 am with a procession beginning at 10 am 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!
krsma Strohmeier says
I worked with Ted at Pro’s. He was a true friend, always greeting you with a smile. We had a lot of heartfelt talks and he helped guide me when I needed it most. I was shocked at this news and my heart and prayers go out to Jane and his whole family. The memories of Ted will be in your hearts forever. Our world was a better place while he was with us and he will be missed greatly. May God’s love help you through this difficult time. Peace be with you all.
With much love and great sadness,
Krsma Strohmeier
Tom and Lu Goetz says
To the Dear Duchac Family,
We wish to convey our condolences to all of you, and especially to Jon,Feulla and family. It surely must be tough to lose yet another of your members. May God hold you all in His ever loving arms and bring peace to all. We keep you in prayer.
Tom and Lu Goetz and family
Lori says
Jane, I am so sorry to hear about Ted. Cherish those memories you have and God will embrace you. God Bless you who have always been my guardian angel. Love, Lori
Doug Duchac says
May God be with you in your time of sorrow. Even though we only saw Teddy once a year, he was so very special to us. He was able to bring joy to any gathering. We will miss him so much. God bless. We will be down for the funeral.
Doug and Bernice Duchac
Thomas Hanke says
Teddy camped across from us at the Hodag Country Fest for many years. We always looked forward to seeing him every year. He was the life of the party. I will cherish those memories. He will be missed. God Bless.
Tom Hanke
Jay & Jamie Miller says
Dearest Tom & loved ones-Our heartfelt thoughts & prayers to our Heavenly Father to give you comfort & strength during this time. With our love, Jay & Jamie Miller
Dave Polacek says
I only knew Ted briefly.
In June, the Ride with the Flame, a Law Enforcement Torch Run motorcycle ride for Special Olympics was held.
The day of the Ride, everyone met at Uke’s Harley-Davidson where I first met Ted. Ted took some heat for showing up to a Harley dealer on a red Goldwing, but he held his own and gave a little back as well.
That morning we were met with pouring rain, high winds, and lightning. 5 riders, a group we now refer to as the “Original 5”, decided that they were going to ride on. Ted was one of those 5.
We are already planning for the second year for this new RIDE, and Ted, even though he and his red Goldwing will not physically be riding with us,Ted will always continue to be our riding companion and we will not forget him. He is after all part of “The Original 5”.
We plan to keep his memory alive and let future riders know what he meant to us, the athletes, and the success of the event in its innaugural year. With a unanimous decision by the RWTF committee, in 2009 we plan to incorporate #61, his radio number, into the t-shirt design. We are also planning to have an annual Ride with the Flame award in Ted’s name presented to the rider or individual who posseses a similar spirit that Ted had, and in my opinion still has. It’s just being put to a much better use.
Jane Duchac says
We all have so many wonderful things to say about Ted, which comforts us. He was always my leader, my hero & our family’s protector, he loved me unconditionally, treated me like a queen, and I was the follower and he led me on some truly adventurous and wonderful journeys, all of us. He was only 54 but lived his life as if he had lived 100 years. He taught our family to be strong and courageous, but right now he understands our grief and we are far away from the shore to walk strong and courageous yet. Our thanks extended to all who are holding us up in prayer as well as in their arms, literally. We are grateful for your love. As for what Ted may have expressed at this time, the kids found this statement that suits him well:
Life’s Journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting “Holy Cow…What a Ride!!!”
Jane Duchac (Racine)
Rayna Helland says
Ted was my grandpa and he passed away when i was only 3. But the pictures i have of him and I always keep him in my heart. He may not be here physically but he is present in my heart always. God bless