Richard Duke Obituary

Richard Kay Duke, passed, Nov. 2, 2010, at his home in Colorado Springs, CO, from complications due to cancer. He was born Dec. 09, 1938, in Price, Utah. He grew up in Spring Glen, UT.. His parents were Harold Steele and Mary Montgomery Duke. He was of English and Scottish decent. Richard and FaNon Davis were married in the Salt Lake City L.D.S. temple on Sept. 18, 1959, for 51 years. . In 1961, Richard received his masters degree in mechanical engineering at Brigham Young University. He and his young family moved to Seattle, WA, to work for Boeing. They then moved to Livermore, CA. He then worked for Laurence Radiation Laboratories. In 1967, Richard and his family, moved to Colorado Springs, CO. He worked for Kaman Sciences. He designed missiles. Later, Richard was employed at Digital Equipment Corp. as a Mechanical Design Engineer. Richard and FaNon are long time members of the Church of Jesus of Latter Day Saints., 6th ward, in Colorado Springs. He was a High Priest, taught, and served as Secretary for many years. Richard and his wife were CO-Presidents of the Young Married Organization, in both ward and stake for many years. He also served as Cub Scout Master for eight years. Richard leaves behind his beloved wife FaNon Davis Duke, and their three children: Tori D. and D. Bart Justice, Richard Trent and Bernadette Villa Duke and Mequette D. and Brent Wangsgard. His Grandchildren: Ryan Peterson and his fiancé Barrett Leary, Chelsea & B. Shayne Justice, Chantel, Melissa H. , R. Chaz, and Brenden C. Duke, and Tanis, Sascia FaNon, and Taitum Wangsgard. His Great Grandchild: Ryan Cade Peterson and soon to be step great-grandchildren: Thorrin Hacker, and Tallon and Teigen Hix. Richard leaves behind his sisters: Phyllis D. Sims and Elaine and Don Nelson. Richard and FaNon were past members of "Square Nuts" and "Wheel and Dealers" and other square dance clubs. Richard loved camping, hiking, fishing, and skiing. Later on in life, he love spending time with his grandchildren. We will miss our beloved Richard greatly, but know he has gone to be with his Lord and Savior in heaven. A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, November 9, 2010, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., Swan-Law Funeral Directors. A Funeral Service is planned for Wednesday, November 10, 2010, at 1:00 p.m., Church Of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints, 1705 N. Murray Blvd, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

Published by The Gazette on Nov. 7, 2010.
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Fanon, Tori, Trent and Mequette, I am so very sorry that I couldn't be there for you, but the memories that I have are so vivid of our many visits, dinners and phone calls. Please know that I am here for you at any time and that God only takes the best. You have been so blessed by Richard's presence throughout. His tremendous dedication to, first of all, his family and his church, friends and all of his work associates and the many journeys has left indelible impressions in many people's lives. I know God will see to it that the many arms that surround you with love are there to comfort you in the trying days, weeks and months ahead.
Love and Prayers,
Donna and Darwin

Donna Harfert

November 11, 2010

I had the pleasure of working with Richard at Digital Equipment Corp during its heyday. I remember best his professional approach and attitude in the most trying of times. I am saddened by learning of his passing. I offer on behalf of my family our sincerest condolences to all of Richard's family. May he rest in peace.

Rudy Vigil
Colorado Springs

November 10, 2010

I will surely miss Richard. He is a great friend and it has been a pleasure to have had the pleasure of his many years of friendship. He is an incredibly witty, creative and enjoyable person.


Thanks Richard,

J.F. Reid
Colorado Springs

November 9, 2010

Dear family and friends of Richard,

I am saddened to learn of Richard's passing. I think back to the many memories of working together at Kaman and our times away from work enjoying skiing, camping and other activities. I can still visualize Richard's consistent smile and sincerity. He diligently utilized his skills to contribute significantly to leading-edge technologies. I am truly grateful for these memories and for having shared Richard's life. I celebrate this privilege today as he is laid to rest.

In sympathy,
John Schneider

November 8, 2010

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