Obituary of William Rene Duchene II

William Rene (Bill) Duchene II passed away peacefully at home on October 4, 2017. He was 88 years old. He was born in Hamilton County Ohio, in Cincinnati. When he was two years old, his parents moved their family to Chattanooga in Hamilton County, Tennessee. He always liked to point that out to people. He lived in the Chattanooga - Hixson area ever since. Bill was chief product engineer for two local companies. One company was a gas and electric appliance company, the other was a lighting and fireplace equipment company. He held a patent on a fireplace damper which he invented. Bill served in the Tennessee National Guard (115 F.A.) for eight years, attaining the rank of Master Sargent. In 1960, he started his own business as a manufacturer's agent representing the construction and manufacturing industries. Bill retired from the business world in 1990 to enjoy fun travels with J.L., his lovely wife of 65 years. He was of the Presbyterian faith and was a charter member of a local church where he served as a deacon. He was an artist who created wonderful sculptures out of matchsticks. He loved the outdoors and held extreme love for his family. Bill was preceeded in death by his wife of 65 years, Jimmie Lou; his son, William Rene Duchene III; sisters Violette Melvin and Marilyn Greene; brother Leroy Duchene; nephew David Duchene, and parents Cecilia and David Hunter. He is survived by his daughter, Cecelia Duchene, his friend who was like a son, Lucius Hilley, and grandson, William Duchene IV. The family wishes to give special thanks to the staff of Hospice of Chattanooga who gave such good care to Bill in his final days. Arrangements are by Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8911 Dallas Hollow Road, Soddy-Daisy (423) 843-2525 Share your memories, stories and photos at www.legacyfuneralhome.com.