Our family circle was broken with the death of our beloved patriarch. Duke was born in Globe, Arizona to parents who emigrated from Montenegro in the 1920s. He excelled in sports at a very young age, but rheumatic fever at 11 changed the course of his life. After graduating in accounting from Arizona State University, he came to Los Angeles and began work at Haskins and Sells. He then was employed by Cyprus Mines Corporation for 25 years, finishing his employment as Director of Taxes. When Cyprus Mines moved out of state, Duke chose to stay in Los Angeles and was hired as International Director of Taxes at U.S. Borax, where he remained for 13 years, until his retirement.
Duke married Nancy Field in 1955, and they moved to Glendale. They became active in Glendale Presbyterian Church, where Duke later served as deacon, elder and adult Sunday class president. During those many years, Duke continued his lifelong interest in sports. Having overcome rheumatic fever’s effects, he enjoyed playing softball and volleyball. He played tennis into his 80s.
Duke’s retirement years were happily spent in Carlsbad, where he and Nancy made cherished friends at Carlsbad Community Church. Being part of the Maranatha class and a small group Bible study were rewarding for him in his senior years.
Duke leaves Nancy, his wife of 65 years; his three daughters, Dyana Vukovich, Jana Vukovich Byeman (Andy) and Marta Vukovich; grandson Joshua Dushan Byeman (Karen) and great-granddaughters, Ava and Alice; granddaughter Julianne Byeman Folin (Steve) and great-grandchildren, Amelia and Abram; sister Nada Pitt; sister-in-law Ida Vukovich; grand godson Ari Abramovitz; and 14 nieces, nephews and cousins. His sister Desanka (Dee) and brother Lazo (Louis) predeceased him.
The values of integrity, responsibility, fidelity, generosity and empathy defined the life Duke lived. We thank God for the blessing he was to our family and many others during his 91 years.
If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Free Wheelchair Mission in Duke’s name, using the following link: https://www.classy.org/fundraiser/2461512.
