We are deeply saddened to hear the news that John House Duncan, Sr. has passed away. John was a native Houstonian, visionary, business leader, philanthropist, and proud Texan.

John received his BBA from McCombs in 1949 and joined the Air Force during the Korean War. He then helped start Gulf & Western Industries in the 1960s, serving as the company’s first President and Co-Founder as well as Chairman of the Executive Committee. The company’s major success story is no secret. By the early 1980s, they had grown to the point where they had over 100,000 employees.

John always felt a deep obligation to make the world a better place. He contributed philanthropic work throughout his entire life and served on many charity boards. He also served in a leadership position for The University of Texas Chancellor’s Council Executive Committee.

Both UT and McCombs recognize John’s contributions of his time and resources. He received the UT Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1988 and was inducted into the McCombs Hall of Fame in 2001.

Read more about the life of John House Duncan, Sr. here.