Michael Thomas Duren

Michael Thomas Duren

Nov. 3, (year intentionally omitted) – May 6, 2025

Michael Thomas Duren, a larger-than-life personality whose warmth, charm, and unmistakable style left a lasting impression on everyone he met, passed away on May 6, 2025, during a stretch of stormy weather—fitting, as his partner James said, given Michael’s lifelong love of watching storms roll through the Texas sky. His soul left his body peacefully as he was held in the loving arms of his beloved James.

Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on Nov. 3, to Tommy and Edna Duren, Michael was their only child and a bright light in their lives. His early years were marked by change and resilience. After the passing of his father during Michael’s youth, he and his mother relocated to Pasadena, Texas, where he grew up, attended local schools, and graduated from Pasadena High School. He later attended Pasadena Junior College, showing his entrepreneurial spirit early by selling nuts and bolts to support himself through school.

Michael’s adventurous spirit led him to California as a young adult, where he explored life and ran in glamorous circles, forging friendships with celebrities—though he was always too humble to name names. When his mother passed away, he returned to Texas to settle her affairs, briefly returned to California, and ultimately found his way back to Texas for good.

Blessed with impeccable taste and a natural eye for design, Michael pursued a career in custom and commercial interior design, working with prestigious firms like Louis Shanks and Thomasville. He consistently excelled as a top salesman, earning accolades and admiration for his creativity and people skills.

In 1979, Michael met the love of his life, James Franklin, and they began a remarkable 45-year journey together. Their partnership was one of devotion, adventure, and shared dreams. Together, they moved to New York City, where they owned and operated the five-star restaurant 10 Park—a posh establishment frequented by stars like Rita Moreno, Cyd Charisse, Mitzi Gaynor, Mel Tormé, Rosemary Clooney, Maxine Mesinger, Kitty Carlisle, Phoebe Tyler, Etta James and Margaret Whiting. They also became close friends with the late Natalie Cole, daughter of Nat King Cole. Designed by Michael in his signature over-the-top, fabulous style, the restaurant featured cobalt blue accents, white linens, and a white grand piano—a perfect reflection of his magnetic personality.

They also co-owned the iconic nightclub Pieces on Christopher Street in the Village, becoming staples in the NYC nightlife scene. Though immersed in the bustling city, Michael and James found peace across the harbor in West New York, New Jersey, where they relished views of Manhattan’s lights from their home. Their journey later took them to Allentown, Pennsylvania, where they successfully reinvented themselves as real estate entrepreneurs.

Eventually, their hearts called them back to Texas to care for James’ aging parents—a testament to their deep sense of family and commitment. Settling in Cleveland, Texas, Michael became the first director of the Cleveland Civic Center, while James served as its special events coordinator. James also worked for many years as a surgical first assistant, a role in which he brought precision, care, and dedication to patients and medical teams alike. Together, they became cherished members of the community, especially known for their unforgettable appearance in the city’s annual lighted Christmas parade—driving a convertible topped with a nine-foot inflatable duck, spreading joy and laughter.

Michael had a passion for antiquing, classic cars, storytelling, and making people feel like old friends from the moment they met. His megawatt smile, boundless energy, and ability to light up a room were trademarks of his unforgettable presence.

Michael and James shared a deep love for their pets, especially their two rescue dogs: Toby, a 7-year-old terrier, and Camilla, 4-year-old Chiweenie. Their fur babies brought them endless joy and comfort and were cherished members of their family.

They also loved sitting together outside their home in Cleveland, watching Texas storms roll in. The rumble of thunder and streaks of lightning reminded them of their dear friend, the late Eartha Kitt, and her unforgettable rendition of "Stormy Weather." It was in those quiet, electric moments that Michael felt most at home—with James by his side, memories in the air, and the sky putting on a show just for them.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Edna Duren; his in-laws, Bill and Yvonne Boyett; and beloved friends Gladys Shelley, Roberta and Rod Glendenning, Brenda Hatley and her son “Little Woody,” Speedy and Kate and their daughter Theresa, John “Birdie” Le Sueur, Pat Redmon and Dusty Redmon, Cathy Alvarez, and Mama Houton.

He leaves behind his devoted husband, James Franklin, and a wide circle of friends and family who will forever cherish his memory and the light he brought into their lives.

Services for Michael will be held in the Pace-Stancil Funeral Home Chapel in Cleveland on Tuesday, May 13th with visitation at 4pm and his funeral at 5pm. Burial will follow in Pace-Stancil Memorial Rest Gardens in Cleveland.