Page created by: The Green and Duryea Families

"Tomorrow is the most important thing in life. Comes into us at midnight very clean. It's perfect when it arrives and it puts itself in our hands. It hopes we've learned something from yesterday." - John Wayne

Ladd Duryea was hard-working, intelligent, and dedicated to his children and grandchildren. He had a work ethic his hero, The Duke, would have been envious of and that made his family proud. He showed us that no dream was too big and no challenge was too tough. He lived each day to its fullest, spreading humor and light everywhere he went.

Ladd was active throughout his life physically, mentally, and within his community. At 70, he ran two marathons, the Chichamunga Chase and the Peachtree Road Race, and won first place for his age group. While living in Chattanooga, he pursued his love acting. From The Miricle on 34th Street to the fun-filled skits of the Ripe and Ready Players, Ladd loved entertaining others. He was also dedicated to his community, serving on many non-profit boards in Chattanooga, including Dismas House and Family and Children Services.

More than anything, Ladd relished the chance enjoy life. Be it running a race, having an ice cream (or ice cream fight), playing a retired cowboy on stage, or simply enjoying the company of his friends and family. It devastated him when he learned of his condition. Scared him, even. He had been so active in his life, that the idea of slowly losing himself was unthinkable. But Ladd was ornery, full of fight, and determined to hang on as long as he could.

"Courage is being scared and saddling up anyway."
John Wayne

Ladd lived a joyous life, full of adventure and laughter. At the age fo 85, 86 if he had anything to say about it, Ladd passed away leaving his family and friends behind. While he is off on his last adventure, we will laugh, live, and eat ice cream. Some of us will even cheer for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and watch a western every now and then.

A lifelong supporter of learning and education, Ladd would have appreciated The Michael J. Fox Foundation's fight to end Parkinson's. The families touched by this disease understand the urgency for a cure and can take heart in knowing there has been tremendous progress since the Foundation opened its doors. The Foundation believes we are closer than ever to breakthrough treatments. Please consider joining us in the cause — in tribute to Ladd Duryea and in honor of the five million living with Parkinson's worldwide.