It is with heavy hearts that Anthesis announces we have lost a valuable past Board Member, Ned “Duff” Duffield, who passed away on January 22, 2021 at the age of 90. Duff was a valued member of the Anthesis family. He was a retired Colonel in the Air Force and spent many years managing military logistics and maintenance activities in the U.S and overseas.
In 1984, Duff, his wife Ruth and daughter Denise moved to Southern California at which time Denise became a participant in the Work Activity Program of PVW/Anthesis. At that time, the Duffield’s became heavily involved in all PVW/Anthesis activities and events and remained involved throughout the years. From Duff and his wife Ruth volunteering their time at events being frequently donating items to the Anthesis Thrift Store, Duff always made an effort to be involved with Anthesis. Because Duff was so pleased with the support that his daughter Denise was receiving from staff at Anthesis, he was never short to show his appreciation to the organization. Duff’s impact has been immeasurable, his kindness infinite, and his involvement nothing short of inspiring.
After Duff’s daughter Denise became a participant at Anthesis, Duff began serving and continued to serve on the Board of Directors and various committees for 35 years. Duff was truly a dedicated Board member and dedicated much of his time to Anthesis including volunteering 3 days a week to help in the maintenance department for years. Mitch Gariador, Executive Director says that “Duff was the most dedicated Board member he has ever seen. He never missed a meeting and meticulously reviewed minutes and other documents so that he was fully prepared for each meeting”. He and Ruth have remained strong supporters of Anthesis throughout the years.
It is due to this dedication and support that the Board of Directors of Anthesis has voted to name one of our new conference rooms, the Ned “Duff” Duffield Board Room in his memory. We invite you to join the Anthesis board and staff in honoring Duff’s contributions to Anthesis.
This campaign will fund programs that he advocated for fiercely during his years as a Board member. In addition, the room (furnishings, artwork, etc.) will be updated to reflect and honor Ned’s life and legacy, Your support, will honor Duff in a way that reflects his dedication and love for Anthesis and the individuals who rely on these life-changing programs.
Your donation will fund the legacy of Ned “Duff” Duffield” and all he has done for those in the disability community.
For those interested in contributing towards honoring Duff’s contributions to Anthesis by donating towards the Ned “Duff” Duffield Board Room, click here.