Gilbert R. Duran

October 16, 1945 - February 18, 2022

Gilbert “Bert” R. Duran, 76, a native of St. Petersburg, went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 18, 2022. Bert served for six years in the Army Reserves, led a singles ministry at Pasadena Community Church, and ministered to small groups in local churches across St. Pete. He was a voracious reader and loved to discuss psychology, spirituality, and family dynamics. Bert was a graduate of St. Pete High School, where he loved playing in the band, attended SPJC and later attended Eckerd College to pursue his dream of becoming a Family Counselor. An avid FSU fan, Bert loved watching college football and rooting for the Rays. He enjoyed having close, personal conversations with his family to encourage them to find joy and authentic purpose in their lives. Bert was co-owner of Duran and Duran Insurance Company. Before his passing he worked as an associate manager at Imperial Point for five years. He is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Janice Duran; children Mark Duran, Denise Merkel, Wendy Allen, Jeff Morris, April Aldrich, and Angie Hicks, as well as children of Marks, Kaffee Maylea and Mark Roan, and 10 step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brother James (Kathy) Duran and nephew Richard Duran. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, February 28 at Memorial Park Funeral Home from 1pm to 2:30pm with graveside to follow. A celebration of life will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Saturday, March 19 at 1pm with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bert’s name to Suncoast Child Evangelism Fellowship, 5000 38th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710.