Michael Benson DuVall, Sr. - Obituary

ichael Benson DuVall, Sr., “Big Mike”, 76, died on Friday, October 30 at his home in Odenton, MD with his family by his side. Born on August 11, 1950 in Germany, Michael was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud veteran, and a man who could seemingly fix anything, and outwork everyone., He lived life with extreme loyalty, determination, a strong work ethic, and a deep love for his family. A member of the Arundel High School Class of 1968, Michael went on to serve his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1968 to 1972, including service with the Coast Guard Honor Guard. His service was an important part of his life and reflected the dedication and pride he carried into everything he did. Michael spent most of his professional career in dental equipment sales, working with Sullivan Dental and Henry Schein. Throughout his years in the industry, he built strong business relationships and friendships with dental professionals and colleagues. He was the go-to guy to figure things out, think through a design flaw or design issue, and work with the construction teams to make sure a buildout was done right. Dentists could always count on his in-depth knowledge of the products, what differences between brands, and superior service to keep them in working order. If there was one thing everyone could count on, it was that Michael knew how to work. He had a remarkable ability to fix just about anything, and if something needed to be done, he was the person who would figure it out. He took pride in solving problems, getting his hands dirty, and getting the job done right. Outworking everyone wasn't just something Michael did, it was simply who he was. Beyond his work, Michael had a true love for boating and crabbing. The Chesapeake Bay and the time spent on the water offered the kind of enjoyment that stayed with him. Whether he was out boating, checking the crab pots, fixing something that needed attention, or finding another project to tackle, Michael was happiest when he was dedicated to a task. Above all, Michael's greatest pride was his family. He was the loving husband of Jule G. DuVall and the beloved father of Nicole M. Hickman (Sean) and Michael B. DuVall, Jr. (Gillian). His legacy continues through his six cherished grandchildren, Erin and Kyle Burden and Harrison, Wesley, Annie, and Henry DuVall. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas Duvall (Valerie). His family will carry forward the memories of time spent together, the lessons he taught through example, and the knowledge that hard work, resourcefulness, and devotion to family are values worth passing down. Not to mention a tickle or toe nibble every now and then. From his early years as an altar boy, to his graduation from Arundel High School, his service in the Coast Guard, and his long career in the dental industry, Michael built a life defined by commitment and perseverance. But it may be the everyday moments that best tell his story: a day on the water, a successful crabbing trip, a new bathroom remodeled, or a basement finished, his love was making everything he touched better than he found it. In addition to his family, Michael leaves behind an extended family, friends, and former colleagues who will remember his determination, humor, ability to listen and always provide the father figure support even if not related. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 3 from 10AM until 11AM followed immediately by Mass of the Resurrection at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD. Inurnment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21741. Online condolences may be made by visiting the Memories link on this page.