Michael Duffy
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Michael Duffy, 71, of Davenport, IA died peacefully and surrounded by family at the minute of market close on January 21, 2022.
Michael Leo Duffy was born in Minneapolis, MN on March 17, 1950. Shortly thereafter, his family moved to Davenport where Mike began his work life by serving 6:30 AM Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Though as an adult Mike distinguished himself by his professional integrity, when just 11, Mike lied about his age to secure a job as a paperboy for the Quad-City Times. A few short years later, he joined Per Mar Security and Research Corp, the company founded by his parents, John and Eleanor (Duax) Duffy. After success at an entry level job (cleaning dog kennels), Mike progressed through other jobs during high school and college. These early work experiences influenced one of Mike's core values: Treat everyone with respect, especially those at the lowest rungs of your own corporate ladder.
Mike married Linda Brus on July 28, 1973, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Davenport. The union cemented a partnership that encompassed both family and business. Mike put family first, scheduling business commitments around family life. He enjoyed organizing family gatherings - serving as chef, activities director, and Life of the Party. Mike had a quick wit and an incredible (Irish) sense of humor that was known to many but most loved by his family.
Mike held various positions at Per Mar, rising to VP of Operations, Executive VP, COO, and eventually President and CEO. Under his leadership the company completed more than 80 acquisitions of life safety companies, eventually becoming the largest family-owned regional full-service security provider in the Midwest with more than 3,000 employees. Mike was a licensed Private Detective in seven states, held the level of U.S. Government Secret Clearance, and served on numerous boards and committees within the security industry. He was also a member of the Young Presidents' Organization - Top Gun Forum.
In the community, Mike served St. Ambrose University Alumni Board, Handicapped Development Center Board, Scott County YMCA Board, the local US Bank Board, Davenport Chamber of Commerce, and Downtown Davenport Development Corp. among many others. He was a cofounder of Rejuvenate Davenport. Mike was recognized with numerous awards, including the Iowa Business Hall of Fame, the Quad Cities Area JA Hall of Fame, and the Security Industry Hall of Fame.
Mike was a lifelong learner; a voracious reader who consumed four newspapers a day and always had a book at hand. He was well known for thoughtfully sending many articles to his loved ones, business associates, and friends - often from the WSJ. He frequently chuckled at articles about the plight of white collar workers in the modern age. Throughout his life Mike supported conservative politics, pro-life causes, and Catholic education. He was an avid couponer and yet a generous tipper. He was well-grounded in his Catholic faith and frequently engaged in Corporal Works of Mercy, including his attendance at many funeral visitations and the practice of sending cards and memorials.
In addition to his wife Linda, Mike is survived by children: Brendon (Megan), Bridget Murphy (Kevin), Brianna Lane (Mark), Bradley (Alison), Brian (Alexandra), Bethany Ketz (Jon); 31 grandchildren; and siblings Dennis (Ann), and Patricia. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Ben, and a grandson, Louie.
Mike & Ben were both long-term thinkers who enjoyed watching the market. The 1st trading day after Mike's death provided one of the greatest intraday swings in stock market history. Mike & Ben must have been smirking at all the "excitement".