Regis Gabriel Dugue passed away on August 26,2026, with Ruth (McDougall), his wife of more than 50 years, at his bedside. Regis was born in Lyon, France, in 1932 to Gabriel and Marie Dugue. His father served in the French Maquis during WWII for over a year, and the war years were very difficult for Regis and his family. Gabriel eventually made his way to Portugal and then the United States, where he waited two years before bringing Regis and his mother over to join him. To avoid enemy fire, their journey was a circuitous one aboard the Yankee Clipper.

Life in the United States brought better times. In high school, Regis famously earned an A in English and a C in French. Knowing Regis, he probably spent his time telling the French teacher how to speak French. Regis later attended the University of Washington through the NROTC program, graduating with a BA in Business Administration and commissioning as an Ensign. While at UW, he met and married the mother of his three children.

As a supply officer in the U.S. Navy, Regis had the opportunity to see much of the world. He completed two tours in Antarctica’s Operation Deep Freeze, and, always the adventurer, he even parachuted out of C-130s over the ice. After active duty, he continued serving in the Naval Reserves and rose to the rank of Commander. He later pursued a successful career in finance, ultimately retiring as the CFO of a large architectural and engineering firm. His professional work took him to all seven continents.

In 1975, Regis met Ruth (McDougall). After a whirlwind courtship, they were married in May of 1976. During their 50-year marriage, they made countless precious memories. They often visited family in France and hosted their French relatives many times at their home in California.

Regis was incredibly active in his communities. He served as President of the Sunrise Rotary in Temecula, California, and traveled to Copenhagen for the International Rotary Convention. After moving to Scottsdale, Arizona, Regis spent Thursday mornings volunteering as a cashier at the Kiwanis Marketplace, a role he dedicatedly kept until his 90th birthday.

Regis was also an amazing competitor. He was an expert ping-pong player, once placed second in a Navy tournament after playing a close match against the Korean national champion. In Italy, he participated in and won a contract bridge tournament. He also bowled a perfect 300 game and was one of those rare, talented golfers able to shoot his age.

Regis was a devoted member of Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, where he actively participated in both the Troop Ministry and the Stamp Ministry.

Regis was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jean, and his son John. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; his daughter, Janine; his son, Jim; and his granddaughter, Niki.

He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 19,2026 at Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, Scottsdale AZ 85266

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Deacons Fund at Desert Hills Presbyterian Church.