David F. Duke

David Franklin Duke, 78, died peacefully Sunday, August 22, 2021 at home, surrounded by his loving family. David was born January 16, 1943 in Galesburg, the son of Muril and Amy (Stephens) Duke. He married Janice L. Liniger on November 4, 1973 in Knoxville. He is survived by his loving wife; two sons, Aaron (Dara) Duke of Galesburg and James Duke of Clinton, IA; a bonus son, Brian Hutchison of Galesburg; two sisters, Donna Peters of Bloomington, IL and Patti “Pat” Cherrington of Dahinda, IL; 6 grandchildren, Caleb, Naomi, Ethan, Zion, Ayden and Adam; and his dear friends, Jack and Beverly Ring. He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Paul Duke; a niece, Nicole Pickrel; and two nephews, Brian Purchase and Rodney Peters. He graduated from Galesburg High School in 1962 then went to Carl Sandburg College. He later served in the U.S. Army as a Military Police Officer from 1967 to 1970 in Germany and then was in the Army Reserves for 18 years. While in the Reserves, he was a mail carrier at the Postal Service for 27 years, retiring in 1999. While working at the post office, David met the love of his life, Janice. He also had worked at Alliance Library Systems for a few years. David loved traveling with his wife, spending time with his grandchildren and going to the kids activities. He treasured a very special trip to Mackinaw City, MI. David was an avid bowler with the Men’s Church League, and a big fan of the LA Dodgers in the 50’s, the Indianapolis Colts and of GHS Basketball. His favorite movies were; Planes, Trains and Automobiles, The Blues Brothers, The Jungle Book, A Christmas Story, and Field of Dreams which he had visited twice. His favorite color was blue. A memorial visitation will be held Wednesday, August 25, 2021 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory. Cremation will be accorded. Memorials may be made to Hope Lodge, Galesburg Veteran’s Memorial, Hospice Compassus or to the family.