Bradley D. Duncan, age 70, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by those who loved him most—his wife, Tracy Topalian; his daughter, Emily Topalian Duncan; and Teddy, the family cat.

Brad was born in Denver, Colorado, then moved to Oyster Bay, New York. He lived for a few years in Tokyo before returning to Oyster Bay. We had met in seventh grade. After graduating from high school, we moved to Madison, Wisconsin, where we began building a beautiful life long love that we shared for the next “bliss filled” 44 years.

Brad was a hands-on dad starting with attending everyone of our weekly prenatal appointments in the High Risk Clinic. Some days he woke up with morning sickness and a sore back! Brad was a hands-on Dad throughout Emily’s entire life, and the two shared an especially strong bond. He gave Emily her first bath, played Barbies, dress up, “house”, and could do hair. He taught her to swim, to dive and to drive. Brad ran into the ocean to save her at the beach. Brad loved to cook. He and Emily spent countless hours together in the kitchen, sharing food, conversation, and time together. These ordinary moments became some of their most treasured memories.

Brad earned his degree in Landscape Architecture and went on to work for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for 33 years as a Geographic Information Specialist. He worked with the Water Division and was part of the effort to create the first statewide digital map of Wisconsin’s wetlands, groundwater, and surface water. He loved his job and took great pride in knowing that his work helped care for Wisconsin’s environment. He was a fierce advocate for the natural world and believed deeply in doing his part to protect it.

Brad’s love of nature extended far beyond his career. He loved being outdoors and took great pride in his beautiful yard and garden, which welcomed bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and all the other creatures that found their way there. His garden was a reflection of the care and appreciation he had for the natural world.

Brad was a true people person. He had a beautiful smile and an infectious laugh. He was warm, welcoming, easygoing, and genuinely interested in getting to know people. He made friends wherever he went, and his kindness and natural ability to make others feel comfortable left a lasting impression on most who knew him. Brad loved babies, dogs, cats, horses and they loved him.

For 70 years, Brad spent time on Horseshow Lake in Pine River MN in at a cabin built by his grandfather. It was his most favorite place in the world. He was an avid fish catcher but even when it was a slow day he would say, “Even a bad day on the lake is better than a great day at work.” Brad loved catching crappies, bass, northern and an occasional walleye. He believed in catch and release but occasionally kept a few for fish fry dinner. He spent many hours in the boat with Emily making sure she was equipped to land “the BIG ones” while pointing out the loons, swans and snapping turtles.

Brad loved music, especially the Grateful Dead, and enjoyed attending concerts with friends all over the country. As Emily got older all 3 of us attended concerts and rock out as a family together. For decades, he was the designated driver, always making sure everyone got home safely. Most of all he was happiest when spending time with the people he loved.

Brad was a devoted husband, an extraordinary father, and a loyal friend. He built a life filled with family, friendships, music, nature, and love. He gave so much of himself to the people around him and to the world he cared so deeply about. Brad will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the good fortune to know him. His laughter, his kindness, his love of nature, and the memories he created with the people he loved will remain with them always.

There will be no formal funeral service. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 23 from 12:00 to 4:20 p.m. at Wingra Park. Friends and loved ones are invited to come together to remember Brad, share stories, and celebrate his remarkable life.

Donations to the Bell Springs Volunteer Fire Department can be made in his honor to their Venmo @bellspringsfire and by cash donations at the celebration of life on Sunday, August 23rd.

Please share your memories below in the online guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434