DUKE, Gilbert Joseph Duke

Born in St. Isdore in New Brunswick, Dad was the youngest of nine siblings. At the age of 15, he moved to Sarnia, where he embarked on a diverse career journey. He worked as a breadman and a bulk truck driver before dedicating over 32 years to Tank Truck Transport, where he proudly maintained a perfect safety record with no accidents. In June 1959, Dad married, Marilyn Elizabeth Coling. Together, they built a beautiful family.

Their first daughter, Diana Lynn, was soon followed by Deborah Ann within 11 months. Despite the challenges, they embraced parenthood with love and dedication. In 1963, they welcomed their son, Wayne Joseph, and thought their family was complete. However, life had a delightful surprise in store when twin boys, David Alan and Robert Joseph, arrived in 1969. Time marched on with many struggles and soon divorce showed up. But sadness was replaced with great joy and happiness when Dad met June Isabel Fisher. They met while dancing at the Balmoral Hotel and continued dancing into marriage on Sept 11, 1987. She was the jam to his crusty peanut butter!! Lol Always happy, positive, upbeat, jolly and smiling, she brought Dad such happiness – it was so wonderful to see him so happy again!!

She encouraged him to experience new things. They enjoyed travelling across Canada – up north, out to the west coast and then the east coast, but home was always the best. They loved camping up north in Algonquin Park and spent many summers there. Visiting family in Michigan was always such a highlight – his niece Rose Sargol and family provided some of the best summers on Caulkins Lake on the pontoon boat. Dad gave us a health scare a few times over the years, but the Duke gene is strong and feisty. We take him to London a few times, get him fixed up and re-wired, and he was good to go for another 20+ years!

His time on Lake Temagami on the houseboat is a great memory he talked about a lot. He loved being outside, on the water, fishing, sitting around the campfire and telling stories. He marvelled at the chipmunk eating a peanut out of his hand!! He was well grounded and very set in how things should be done! His poor youth in New Brunswick helped to carve his attitude in life and he really appreciated the simple things life brought – family gatherings, telling stories and planning the next trip or event. Nothing fancy was necessary.

Dad was always there for his family. His love was endless and was so caring. His smile was infectious. Our large extended and blended family will surely miss him greatly. We are blessed to have him with us for 90+ years! We have many memories to keep and cherish for many years to come. He will walk among us in our memories and stories. Dad will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family and his work, his sense of humor, and the joy he brought to those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and cherished memories.

Gil is survived by his wife June Isabel Duke (nee Fisher); daughters Diana Duke (Chris Wegener), and Deborah Ann Rochon (late Bob Rochon); sons Wayne Joseph Duke, David Alan (Tammy), and Robert Joseph (Sandra); step-daughter Laurie Murtland (James); step-sons Scott Fisher (Anita), Steven Fisher (Jo-ann), and Dale Fisher (Kerry); grandchildren Shawn Duke, Jason Rochon, Tyler Rochon, Andrew Rochon, Rebecca Duke, Jon Duke, Cheylynne Duke, Miranda Duke, Larissa Duke, Mike Fisher, Jason Fisher, Cole Murtland, Kate Murtland, Gena Hewitt, Biannca Workman, Lexie Fisher, and Lila Fishe; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Xavier Duke and Anne Landry, and siblings Romeo (Mary Jean), Josephine Chaison, Anna Gallant (Romeo), Helene Savoie (Joe), Albert (Geraldine), Hubert (Rose) Elizabeth Duclos (Emery), and Clara Landry (George).

In keeping with Dad’s wishes, there will be no funeral. There will have a celebration of life later in the new year. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.