Obituary for Michael Joseph Duenas
Michael Joseph Duenas
9/8/1971 - 7/5/2023
Michael Joseph Duenas, at the age of 51 joined his mother and father on what would have been his late father’s 83rd birthday. Michael had so many nicknames from close friends and family making it hard to pick just one. With his love of water, the one we think does him the most justice was his favorite Scuba Mike.
Born September 8th, 1971, to Benjamin Junior Duenas and Juliana Matanane Duenas in Guam, Michael graduated from Olympic High School in 1989 and furthered his education with life as the experience. Every single place he touched was coupled with learning from others and teaching those around him. His zest to live every moment to the fullest is showcased throughout this amazing journey. Skydiver, master diver, Aikido black belt and instructor, competitive boys’ gymnastics team instructor, home and furniture builder and pianist, the list goes on.
He participated in body recovery in Alaskan waters and for 13 years was an Aviation Egress Instructor whereas he liked to say, “I was paid to torture Marines.” He also participated during the Annual USS Emmons Memorial dive twice.
Of course, not everything was rainbows and butterflies, he had his demons, he won some fights, he lost some wars.
In December of 1992 he became a Marine’s wife to Stella, they raised 3 children, Michael, Juliana, and Gavin.
Michael was predeceased by both parents Benjamin and Juliana. He is survived by Stella and his children Michael, Juliana and Gavin, his siblings Benjamin and Timoti Duenas and sister Lorie Wood. In lieu of flowers, the family requests sand dollars, shells, other sea related items or donations to the PADI AWARE Foundation. May he be remembered every time we visit everywhere and everything the seven seas touch.
9/8/1971 - 7/5/2023
Michael Joseph Duenas, at the age of 51 joined his mother and father on what would have been his late father’s 83rd birthday. Michael had so many nicknames from close friends and family making it hard to pick just one. With his love of water, the one we think does him the most justice was his favorite Scuba Mike.
Born September 8th, 1971, to Benjamin Junior Duenas and Juliana Matanane Duenas in Guam, Michael graduated from Olympic High School in 1989 and furthered his education with life as the experience. Every single place he touched was coupled with learning from others and teaching those around him. His zest to live every moment to the fullest is showcased throughout this amazing journey. Skydiver, master diver, Aikido black belt and instructor, competitive boys’ gymnastics team instructor, home and furniture builder and pianist, the list goes on.
He participated in body recovery in Alaskan waters and for 13 years was an Aviation Egress Instructor whereas he liked to say, “I was paid to torture Marines.” He also participated during the Annual USS Emmons Memorial dive twice.
Of course, not everything was rainbows and butterflies, he had his demons, he won some fights, he lost some wars.
In December of 1992 he became a Marine’s wife to Stella, they raised 3 children, Michael, Juliana, and Gavin.
Michael was predeceased by both parents Benjamin and Juliana. He is survived by Stella and his children Michael, Juliana and Gavin, his siblings Benjamin and Timoti Duenas and sister Lorie Wood. In lieu of flowers, the family requests sand dollars, shells, other sea related items or donations to the PADI AWARE Foundation. May he be remembered every time we visit everywhere and everything the seven seas touch.