Theodore “Teddy” Edward Duchac, 54, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, September 19, 2008, as the result of a heart attack.

Teddy was born in Racine on April 11, 1954, to William and Stella (nee: Resch) Duchac. He graduated from St. Francis DeSales Seminary of Milwaukee in 1972. Following graduation, Teddy continued his studies in theology with the intentions of becoming a Catholic priest. That was, until he met the love of his life, Jane Marie Berchem. They were united in marriage on November 7, 1975, at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in Union Grove.

For many years, Teddy has been employed by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. Since 2000, he has served as a corrections officer at Racine Youthful Offenders Correctional Facility, with the current rank of Sergeant, not only providing discipline but “life guidance” in getting our youth back on track.

Teddy was a member of St. Lucy Catholic Church. He loved nothing more than being with his family. Passionate about his motorcycle, Teddy and Jane recently rode 3,300 miles on their bike, touring throughout the United States, and creating a lifetime of memories. He also liked to skydive and did so with his family and friends numerous times. Although to become a priest was not God’s plan for him, Teddy ministered to all those he met, encouraging them to live life to the fullest, every day, just as he did.

Most of all, he was a devoted husband, proud father and passionately involved grandfather who always put his family first. As great as the loss of Teddy is to us, much greater is the glory for Him. He will be sorely missed.

Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 33 years, Jane; their children, Julie (Ryan) Silich of Racine, Lisa (Rick) Helland of Kenosha, Jason (Leslie) Duchac and Matthew (Kristen) Duchac, both of Racine; grandchildren, Makennah Ingle (whom Teddy affectionately called “Pookie”) and her dad, Jason Ingle; Rayna Helland, Megan Duchac, Paige VanDusen, Logan and Taylor Staples; and was anxiously awaiting the birth of his 7th grandchild – due November 23, 2008; his father, William Duchac; brothers and sisters, Rose and Jim Patch, Michael Duchac, Scott (Sue) Duchac, Joe (Kathy) Duchac, Dave (Nancy) Duchac, Colleen (Jerry) Jossart, Tom Duchac, Jon (Foulla) Duchac and Brian (Donna) Duchac; father-in-law, Leo Berchem; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Debbie Duchac, Luanne (William) Dorsey, Steve (Linda) Berchem, Michele Berchem and Harold Deschler; and by many, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name including his fellow officers at RYOCF.

Teddy was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Stella; brothers, Patrick, Timothy and Mark Duchac; and mother-in-law, Delores Berchem.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 26, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating and Deacon Dan Burmeister assisting. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday from 5-8 p.m. and, again in the funeral home, on Friday from 9-10 a.m. with a procession beginning at 10 a.m. to St. Lucy Church. In accordance with Teddy’s wishes, cremation will follow the services. In memory of Teddy, memorials may be directed to his family for the future education of his precious grandchildren – a contribution he entirely would have wanted.