Joseph James Duffus was born June 17, 1876 in Peterborough, Ontario to James J. Duffus and Maria Galvin. He was educated in Peterborough. He was a farmer, businessman and builder. He married Gertrude L. Sullivan, also from Peterborough, on April 30, 1907. They had four children: Jean M.G., Gerald M.J., Karl J.A. and Isabell I.G. They had thirteen grandchildren. J.J. was a graduate of the Royal School of Calvary and the Royal School of Infantry. He served with the 3rd Prince of Wales Canadian Dragoons and the 247th Regiment. He also served with the Coronation Contingent. J.J. was decorated with medals from Edward VII, George VI and Elizabeth II. Eventually he was called Lieutenant-Colonel and then Colonel. He as an alderman for the City of Peterborough for six years and Mayor of Peterborough from 1916 to 1917. J.J. was the President for the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce for four years; president for the Ontario Associated Boards of Trade and Chambers of Commerce in 1926; president of the Ontario Plowman's Association in 1926, director from 1923 to 1942; and, president of the Peterborough Hockey Club in 1926. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club and the Knights of Columbus. He was first elected, as a Liberal candidate, to the House of Commons in 1935 and he was summoned to the Senate in 1940 where he sat until his death. The Honourable Joseph James Duffus, Colonel, died February 7, 1957. (Taken from: "The Canadian Parliamentary Guide." Ottawa: Pierre G. Normandin, 1957.)