Earle Ward Durham

DURHAM, Earle W. passed away at his home in Land O’ Lakes, Florida at the age of 78 on December 31, 2012. He just stopped breathing and passed away very peacefully. He fought colon cancer for six years and led a full life, until his body couldn’t take any more treatments. He received wonderful care at the VA Hospital in Tampa, they gave him years to travel and enjoy his family and his yard. He was very grateful for the wonderful nurses and doctors who cared for him. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen (Kathie) Durham; son, Earle L. Durham; and daughter, Kay D. Durham – who have been right there for him, to make his last days as pleasant as possible, his grandchildren have also been at his side – Justin, Kristina, Jeffrey, Jeremy, Amy and Erica. He appreciated them so much. We thank God for our wonderful family and friends. Earle and Kathie have had a wonderful life and have no regrets; they traveled the world and have been in all the states and national parks in the United States. They did what they wanted to do and enjoyed their family, life was good. Earle was born in Dowling Park, Florida in 1934. He moved to Pennsylvania when he was thirteen, there he met his wife. They married while he was in the Army Airborne at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. After his service, they built their first home in Greenville, Pennsylvania. After a few years, they moved to Clearwater, Florida, then to Land O’ Lakes, Florida and then spent 23 years in New Jersey for his job as a plant engineer, and retired back to Florida where they enjoyed every minute of it. 57 years married, life was good! His last wishes were that his family be cared for and able to live a good life also. He wanted to be at home with his wife and pass away peacefully, and he did. Thank you all for your care and support. His final resting place will be at the Florida National Cemetery. Services will be announced as soon as possible.