Duke was born in Lincoln, Maine, Dec 21, 1928. Duke was a graduate of Lincoln High School and a college graduate where he received his Bachelors of Arts Degree. Duke was married to his beloved and devoted wife, Erika Anna Windsor.
Duke served in the United States Army for 28 years. He attained the rank of Command Sergeant Major. Duke served multiple combat tours in the Korean and Vietnam wars. Some of his awards included the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Purple Heart with First Oak Leaf, Combat Infantry Badge (second Award). Duke also continued working with the Department of Defense Dependent Schools in Heidelberg, Germany. He was the JROTC Commandant and Rifle Coach for Heidelberg High School for nine years. During that period, Duke coached the JROTC Rifle Team into three back-to-back JROTC Marksmanship Championships in Europe. This is one of his many achievements as a mentor of young people. Duke was also the Assistant Commandant of the ROTC Program at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Duke had a love for the outdoors, and loved to fish with his son in-law and Grandchildren. Duke also participated in numerous fishing clubs in Europe.
Duke is survived by his wife Erika, who devoted her past 10 years for the total care, devotion, love and support for his remaining days. His four children Matthew, Michael, Kathleen and Ricky. His eight Grandchildren Miranda, Nichole, David, Kayne, Calla, Daniel, Mandy and Christine.
The family suggest that all memorial donations be made to Leeza’s Place, 3661 South Babcock St. #B, Melbourne, FL 32901-8903.
“I was that which others did not want to be. I went where others feared to go, and did what others failed to do. I asked nothing from those who gave nothing, and reluctantly accepted the thought of eternal loneliness…should I fail. I have seen the face of terror, felt the stinging of cold fear, and enjoyed the sweet taste of moments love. I have cried, pained, and hoped…but most of all, I have lived times other would say were best forgotten. At least some day I will be able to say that I was proud of what I was…a “SOILDER”
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