International Family of the Year Puts Faith and Charity First

Oct. 1, 2025

By Columbia Staff

Oct. 1, 2025

Ken and Mary Ann Duppong and their children and children’s families are recognized as the 2025 International Family of the Year. — Ken and Mary Ann Duppong (back row, center) of Glen Ullin, North Dakota — joined by their children and their children’s families — are recognized as the 2025 International Family of the Year at the Supreme Knight’s Awards Session Aug. 4. (Photo by Paul Haring)

Since the beginning of their marriage, faith has been at the center of Ken and Mary Ann Duppong’s family life. From praying a daily family rosary and enthroning the Sacred Heart of Jesus in their home to organizing Corpus Christi celebrations near their farm in Glen Ullin, North Dakota, the Duppongs have always placed God first — handing on the faith to their six children and 18 grandchildren.

Ken and Mary Ann have been active as leaders and volunteers in their parish and community — leading rosaries before Sunday Masses, hosting faith studies, visiting the local nursing home, and participating in pro-life events. A Knight for 53 years, Ken has served in various officer positions, including grand knight, for Bishop Ryan Council 4004 in Glen Ullin.

Their children — Jeff, Lisa, Sara, Michelle, Renae and Kalene — have likewise given joyful witness to their Catholic faith in their adult lives. Jeff and his brothers-in-law, Kyle and Brad, are Knights; Michelle and Renae served as FOCUS campus missionaries; and Lisa, Kalene and Sara each volunteer in support of Catholic education. Indeed, the entire Duppong family, including spouses and grandchildren, are active members of their schools, parishes and dioceses.

Ken and Mary Ann’s daughter Michelle died from cancer in 2015 at age 31. The Diocese of Bismarck opened her cause for canonization in 2022, at which time she was named a Servant of God. Over the past 20 years, the Duppongs have welcomed hundreds of people to their farm for faith-related social events and retreats — and, more recently, to share the story of Michelle’s life with visitors to her grave.

“We are just an ordinary family with everyday trials, weaknesses, personality quirks and sinfulness,” said Ken in remarks at the Supreme Knight’s Awards Session. “Like many other families, we are trying to focus on what is most important in the end. What really matters to us is our Catholic faith — to know, love and serve God in this world and to be happy with him in the next.”

Pope Leo XIV speaks with Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly and Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William Lori.

International Family of the Year Puts Faith and Charity First

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