He was born in Oil City, Pa., and graduated from the University of Maryland. He received a master's in journalism and in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

He was a 31-year, highly decorated veteran of the U.S. Army. He received two Silver Stars, the Legion of Merit Award and the Bronze Star with two oak clusters.

He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and the Military Officers Association of America. A memorial service will be conducted Monday at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Wilmington by the Rev. Joe Brennan.

Survivors include his wife, Jean Hanna Duncan; two daughters, Joyce Gourlay of Erwin and Michelle Patterson of Winchester, Va.; three grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 4601 Park Ave., Wilmington, N.C., 28403.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.andrewsmortuary.com.