Michael Duffin (22 Jul 1940 - 26 May 2026)

You will be missed by a lot of people

I only came to know Mike in recent years through my role as Head of Athletics at Benenden School, but he quickly became something of a legend among our athletes. His passion for the sport, unwavering dedication, generosity of spirit, wonderful sense of humour and gift for storytelling left a lasting impression, and his legacy continues to inspire all those fortunate enough to have known him.
Mike was also known to my parents and sister through their involvement with Paddock Wood Athletics Club, and my parents have shared many fond memories of him. My sister spent her final days at Hospice in the Weald, so I know first-hand the outstanding care and compassion that Mike would have received during his time there.
Mike, you were simply the best. You will be remembered with great affection, gratitude and respect, and deeply missed by all whose lives you touched.

Mike you will me sadly missed by us all

To Liz, Jan and James, sending you love at this difficult time. I will always remember Mick as a warm, fun and lovely gentleman who went out of his way to give us lifts to all our various school activities. I also spent a lovely summer holiday in Suffolk with you all, where we played lots of fun games. You’ll be greatly missed! Lots of love Clairexxx

God Bless, Michael. Sleep well.

Rest in peace Mick. We’re glad you were so well looked after. Love to the family xx

We shared many a laugh over the last 58 years. No more laughs, just happy memories. Rest in peace- you will be missed by all.
Dave and family xx

Nico and myself, have lovely memories of Mick. He gave so much time to PWAC and I know of so many others that have also been inspired and supported by Mick. He was always willing to help out, he even helped me run an event for my old school so lots of other children could come and use the track. He was always rushing around to help with something and with a great sense of humour too. He had many a tale to tell and loved to take time talking. I enjoyed our many conversations over the years. He introduced me to the marathon bag mission!
There really is a big role to fill now but hopefully many of those he has inspired will follow in his footsteps and carry on running amazing events like Startrack and the club.
My love to his family and friends.
Mick you left a lasting impact on so many - now is the time to have a rest xxx

Mick's passing is a great loss to his family and friends and to PWAC. From the moment of the Club's creation Mick was at the forefront of the Club's success, from his involvement in that creation though the success of the half marathon to the development and success of the training track. Added to that was his extraordinary commitment and energy to athletics not only in Kent but nationality. From a personal perspective he has been instrumental in my enjoyment
of running and that of my children and grandchildren. Mick was a friend to us all and will be greatly missed.

I only met Mick about 4 years ago
when I met him and the family through Stewart. I will always remember him as a lovely warm and interesting man, but I will especially remember the way he made me very welcome when I joined the family together with Stewart on an annual West Country holiday. Please accept my sincere condolences.

When I brought my daughter Ellen to her first juniors training session at PWAC we were surprised to be welcomed by an 80 year old man… Mick was very welcoming and it soon became clear that the club and the world of athletics meant so much to him. It has been a real honour to get to know him and his sense of humour. He loved a chat and told us so many stories. Thank you Mick, our family will miss you very much.