Colleagues, it is with great regret that I advise the House of the passing of Dolphus Henry (Duffy) Cazon. Today, it is not to mourn his passing but to celebrate a life full of joy, generosity, and simple pleasures that touched us all.
Born on July 30, 1953, in Fort Simpson to Baptiste and Marie Alphonsine Cazon, Duffy was one of 17 children who grew up embracing the land alongside his siblings -- running, laughing, and learning the rhythms of our northern home. From his young days, Duffy's love for music lit up the room. He'd practice that accordion with such passion and later in life nothing made him happier than rock n' roll tunes or a good kung fu movie. Give him a T-shirt from his favourite band or a DVD of Bruce Lee and his eyes would sparkle. Kathy Tsetso reminded us of his quirky love for chocolate-covered cherries, a mystery until we learned these were his mother's favorite. This story captures Duffy's loyalty, sentimental, and full of heart.
Duffy was generosity itself. If you needed something and he had it, it was yours - no questions asked. Much of his adult life brought physical challenges confining him to a motorized wheelchair but did that slow him down? Never. We'd spot him zipping through Fort Simpson, that big smile on his face, often on the hunt for his favourite snuff. Despite it all he stayed happy, positive, a familiar and beloved presence who lifted spirits wherever he went.
In his later years at the Fort Simpson long-term care facility, Duffy found a second family in the staff and residents who adored his humour and warmth. To them, we say thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness and care. After a long battle with health issues, Duffy passed peacefully on December 17, 2025, at the age of 72 years young.
Duffy leaves a legacy of smiles, music, and open-hearted giving. He reminds us to find joy in the small things, to share freely, and to keep smiles through trials. Rest easy, Duffy, your spirit rolls on in our stories, our songs, and our community.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff for their kindness and unwavering support during his time there. We know he is with his siblings and parents that predeceased him. He will be sadly missed.
