Richard Steven Dugan

Richard Steven Dugan, aka "Big Rich", joined his mother in heaven on November 23, 2024, one day after celebrating his 53rd birthday. 

Rich was born in Rochester, New York on November 22, 1971. He was brought home from the hospital three days later on Thanksgiving and in time for his first solid meal. 

He moved to Fort Walton Beach in 1990 after attending St. Michael's School and Clyde-Savannah High School. One of Richard's first jobs was at Tony's Italian Restaurant. He later worked as a sprinkler fitter from 1997 to 2010, working for AFPS, Hillers and other companies traveling from Florida to Alaska. 

He also worked security at AJ's Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin for three years, while simultaneously launching his business, RD Pressure Washing 

In August 2016, Rich was diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure and started the long wait for a transplant. In 2023, he underwent a double bypass with double valve replacement which initially improved his heart health. Sadly, in his final weeks, a new issue arose. By the time it was identified, during his birthday week, it was too late. 

Rich was predeceased by his father, William W. Dugan Sr; his mother, Irene P. McLane and step-father Michael McLane; his brothers, Charles Wanless and Michael John McLane; and both sets of grandparents. He is survived by his bonus mom, Doreen Dugan of Sagle, Idaho; his sisters, Natalie Wanless of Rochester, NY, and Jeanne (Ken) Robinson of Fort Walton Beach, Florida; his brothers, David Wanless of Fort Walton Beach, William (Linda) of Arroyo Grande, California, and Eric (Kathy) Johnson of Davidson, North Carolina; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Rich also leaves behind an incredible circle of friends whom supported him and his family through doctor appointments, shopping and countless other acts of kindness. 

There will be a Celebration of Rich's life on January 12, 2025 from 3:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. at the Elks Lodge on Okaloosa Island.   In honor of Richard's memory please wear a sports jersey or your favorite rock band t-shirt.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the National Kidney Foundation in Richard's name or registering to become an organ donor.