MILFORD - Duane A. Benton, 46, of Milford, formerly of Pembroke, passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023. He was born on October 28, 1977 in Quincy, MA, son of David A. and Eileen M. (Hogan) Benton. Duane was an artist and an engineer. Able to talk to anyone about anything, he embraced life-long friends as family. Genuinely interested in knowing the people with whom he crossed paths, Duane was a friend to everyone he met. A big man with a fierce look - he had a heavy brow, bold tattoos, and majestic beard that was sometimes a shock of red against his thick, black hair inherited from his maternal grandfather - that was quickly overwhelmed by his sparkling eyes, ready smile and giant-sized giggle. Kids and pets loved Duane best; he'd baby talk a dog and wrestle a nephew, letting them pin him down with dramatic flair. Like his namesake, Duane Allman, he was a magically gifted, self-taught musician. He could play any instrument he picked up, but was especially talented and passionate about the bass. Happiest jamming with friends, cheering on the Pats with his mom, rocking at countless concerts, hiking NH's quiet trails, rolling on a BJJ mat, laughing at his Dad's jokes by a bon fire, or jeering over Pictionary at Christmas Eve, he made every scene a little lighter and a hell of a lot more interesting. Duane loved big, with his whole heart. A graduate of Pembroke Academy and the Connecticut School of Broadcasting, in class his intellect often outpaced his effort. However, the two found equilibrium in his career as Duane was often seen as the hardest working man on the team. He worked for many years with Allegro Systems, but had recently been working with Jewell Instruments. Duane is survived by his parents, siblings, Crystal Benton Burnett and her husband Jake, and Colleen Benton, nephews, Liam Benton and Sawyer Burnett as well as many family and friends who will each miss him every single day. Services will be scheduled in the New Year. The Roan Family Funeral Home in Pembroke is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a memory or offer a condolence please visit www.roanfamilyfuneral.com