DUNCAN, B.M. ((DUNCAN, B.M. (Benard Michael – ‘Ben’)))

Benard Michael Duncan was born in Edmonton, AB.  He joined the RCMP in 1954 and trained in Ottawa, Ontario. His entire career was spent in British Columbia, most of it on highway patrol. He served a variety of positions in Vancouver Town Station, Powell River, 2 tours of duty in Prince George (1957 - 1961), Mile 300 of the Alaska Highway at Fort Nelson, (1961 - 1964), Burnaby, Cloverdale, and Nanaimo. Ben retired as a Staff Sargent with the Burnaby Detachment in 1982.  He enjoyed his many years of service in the Force, and received the RCMP Long Service Medal and Bronze Clasp and Star.

 

One of the more interesting assignments was patrolling the Alaskan Highway, which was only a muddy, gravel road until it was covered with snow in September. Temperatures averaged 40 degrees below zero Fahrenheit. One of the pictures shown is with his patrol car covered in mud.

 

 Ben was a member of the RCMP Veterans' Association - Central Vancouver Island Division. He loved to cook at the Shriner's Pancake Breakfast, hot dogs on Canada Day and the Fish Fry in Lanzville. He was fully involved with the Masonic Lodge and Shriners and had earned his Scottish Rights and Royal Arch Degrees. 

 

Ben passed away on June 13, 2018, leaving behind his loving wife of 61 years, Barb, son Donald (Monica) and daughter Deborah.

 

"I fondly recall Ben from our Burnaby Detachment days - he operated Radar in the Traffic Unit for years, and I recall him giving expert evidence in Burnaby Provincial Court. He was a great friend and an excellent, calm and honest mentor for younger members, including me."   J.J. Healy

 

Story Submitted February 20, 2025