WWII veteran celebrates 100th birthday in Lincolnshire

Submitted by Kristin Duncan

G. Grant Duncan of Lincolnshire will celebrate a milestone not many live to see when he turns 100 on Oct. 23.

Born in Fowlerville to Frank and Bernice Duncan, he graduated from Fowlerville High School in 1941. He married his childhood sweetheart, Norma Lou Joll - also born and raised in Fowlerville - in 1943. He has survived his three sisters, Marjorie (Sullivan), Ruth (Backhuus) and Francine (Comstock).

Shortly after marrying, Duncan enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1943 at the age of 19. He completed boot camp in La Jolla, California. From there, he was deployed with the 1st Marine Division to the South Pacific and fought in Guadalcanal as well as the Mariana and Palau Islands campaigns, which included the battles of Peleliu and Okinawa.

During his service, Duncan was one of a very select group assigned the duty of radio intelligence, where he intercepted and deciphered Japanese code.

After his military service, Duncan earned his undergraduate degree at Albion College in Albion, Michigan, and his Master of Business Administration from Michigan State University.

He held various corporate leadership positions at Ford Motor Company and Allis Chalmers; Stansteel, a subsidiary of Allis Chalmers, where he served as company president; and Fiat Allis. Of all his accomplishments, however, he is most proud of his service to his country as a Marine.

In his younger days, Duncan was a skilled athlete, playing basketball and tennis for many years. He enjoyed golf for decades until he hung up his clubs just a few years ago. He credits his longevity to consistently staying active.

Duncan has had residences in Lincolnshire and Lake Forest since 1979, and currently resides at Sedgebrook Senior Living Community in Lincolnshire. His family will be gathering on Oct. 22 to celebrate this special occasion.

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