Richard "Duke" Dukelow

Richard Markham Dukelow, age 91 of Markesan, passed away on December 9, 2022. He was born on January 13, 1931, in Gilbert, MN, the son of Richard and Marjorie (Markham) Dukelow.

In 1941, he moved with his family to Grand Rapids, MN where he graduated from high school. Duke served in the U.S. Navy Air for four years. Upon his discharge he became a commercial pilot and flight instructor. He attended Itasca Junior College and graduated in 1958. While attending North Dakota State University he met the love of his life, Joyce Oliver, whom he married on May 23, 1959. Later that year they moved to Markesan, WI where they purchased the family farm. There they raised their two children, Todd and Rhonda.

In 1978, Richard became a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. He served on the church council, elders board and building committee. He also served on the County Board of Commissioners and on the Green Lake County Drainage Board.

Some of his most fond memories were dancing with the love of his life.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and sister, Alice.

He is survived by his children, Todd (Jan) Dukelow and Rhonda Bocek; 7 grandchildren, Amber (Andy) Miller, Tyler (Miracle) Dukelow, Alex (Hannah) Dukelow, Max (Megan) Dukelow, Anthony Bocek, Alyson (Jeff) Wagoner, and Casey (Ben) Novak; 17 great grandchildren; further survived by special friends, Clyde Olsen and Phyllis (Dick) Birk.

Visitation for Duke will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 12, 2022, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church W3377 Main Street Manchester, WI.

A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 12, 2022, at church with Pastor Michael Plagenz officiating. Burial will take place at Grand Prairie Cemetery.