Duncan Lee McKenzie

August 27, 1958 – April 15, 2011

Duncan was a Santa Barbara native, 8th-generation descendant of the first commandant of the Presidio, Jose Francisco de Ortega, and 6th-generation descendant of local pioneer Wm Benjamin Foxen. After attending local schools, including SMHS and SBCC, he found his professional calling as a land surveyor.

He passed away peacefully while camping in a beautiful place, as he loved to do. He had a special connection with nature, and it showed in his hobbies: he was a master falconer, teaching Boy Scouts and school children about falconry and assisting the UC Santa Cruz peregrine falcon monitoring program; a field biologist and back country patrol for the U.S. Forest Service; and a docent for the SB Museum of Natural History. He spent countless hours hiking, camping and fishing, often in the happy company of his dog Booker or Marley, or his hawk Reno.

His wide range of interests also included scuba diving, photography, drafting and motocross. Duncan was sunny, kind-hearted, gentle, compassionate and always willing to lend a hand to those in need. He had a large and diverse circle of friends, and will be greatly missed by all of us whose lives he touched.

Duncan’s greatest joy in life was the birth of his son Owen in 1996, his greatest pride was in Owen’s remarkable accomplishments over the past 14 years, and his undying love will always be with Owen.

Duncan was the son of George and the late Barbara (Abbott) McKenzie. In addition to his father and son, he leaves sisters Ellen, Anne and Robin, brother Martin, brother-in-law Mitch, aunt Patricia Kohrs, and many cousins.

An outdoor memorial gathering will be held at 11:00 AM on Sunday, May 22 at the SB Museum of Natural History.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Duncan with a donation may do so in his name to SB Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, SB, CA 93105, or to the charity of their choice.