Raul "Roy" Duran was born on 06/12/43 in San Antonio, Tx to Eva Gonzales (deceased) and Pedro Duran (deceased). Roy had three siblings, two sisters Stella and Susie (deceased) and his brother Pedro. Roy spent most of his youth in San Antonio before moving to California.
At the young age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. His military career began in June of 1960 at MCRD San Diego, after boot camp he went to survival training at Camp Pendleton where he was a Supply Technician. In 1966, he completed Vietnamese Language school at Coronado Naval Base in San Diego. During his military career, he worked in Nuclear Ordinance at Camp LeJune, NC, but primarily worked in Supply (Logistics), and was Supply Chief at multiple military bases. He also ran the enlisted clubs in Okinawa. Roy took great pride in his military career. A career that took his family throughout the United States and on multiple tours to Okinawa, Japan.
Roy retired after 30 years as Master Gunnery Sergeant (MGySgt) E9, which earned him the nickname of "Top." Master Gunnery Sergeant is the 9th and highest enlisted grade in the United States Marine Corps. He received multiple service awards and medals including Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Navy Achievement Medal. Semper Fi!
After he retired from the Marine Corps, he worked in the Walmart Electronics Department. He was a total movie buff and enjoyed working with electronics. Roy also worked at the US Mint, where he received numerous accolades for his dedication and work ethic.
We all know, Roy lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed traveling, all types of music, and he loved to dance. He loved golf, boxing and was always supportive of the Colorado sports teams, especially the Denver Broncos! He was a loyal Broncos fan since moving to Colorado in 1976. But above all, he loved his weekly
drive up the hill to Central City/Blackhawk, where often, he won!
It was obvious to all that knew Roy, that his family was the most important part of his life. Roy is survived by his wife Ruby, his three daughters from his first wife Mary; Bridget Brinklow, Deborah Duran and Maria Gurule and blessed to have gained two sons from his second wife, Ruby; Donald and Daniel
Garcia. Roy is a loving and proud Grandfather to Garlin Brinklow, Jordan & Dylan Gurule, and Jack & Jenna Garcia. He is also Great Grandfather to Hailie & Hunter Brinklow. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and loving family members.
Services are scheduled for Monday August 21,2023 at Newcomer Funeral Home East, 190 Potomac St. Aurora CO. Gathering 9-10am, Memorial Service 10-12. Interment at Fort Logan National Cemetery 1:30. Reception to follow at Newcomer East Reception Hall.
Flowers can be sent to Newcomer or in lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the
American Cancer Society or Wounded Warrior Project.