Darrell Dale Duke

Darrell Dale Duke went to be with our Lord Jesus on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at his home in Citrus Heights, California surrounded by family. He was 84 years of age. Darrell was born on October 27, 1936 to William and Irene Duke in Turlock, California. His father passed away when he was 12 years old so he took on many responsibilities to help his mother (including grocery shopping with his red wagon). He also helped with the care of his 2 younger siblings. He attended Hawthorne Elementary School, Wakefield Middle School, and Turlock High School. After graduation from high school in 1954, he studied at Modesto Junior College and Fresno State University. He then began his 40 year career with the state of California. He worked as a Civil Engineering Technician, Assistant Land Agent, and finally a Contracts Analyst primarily for the Department of Parks and Recreation, but spent a few years with the Department of Corrections and Cal Expo. In 1996, he received the Administrative Services Employee Recognition Award for his technical assistance to other contracting professionals, and for his development and participation in the Department of Parks and Recreation contract training program. He married Loretta Rapp on June 8, 1963. In July 1964, they found their home in Citrus Heights, California where they raised their 2 children. Darrell always strived to do his best in everything he did, including various DIY projects at home. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed camping, fishing, outings, and road trips. He loved the Lord, and for many years attended the First Baptist Church of Roseville where he served as a deacon and elder. He had a heart for animals, and throughout his life he had a variety of pets (including a baby opossum, as well as dogs, cats, and birds). He had a witty sense of humor and loved a good laugh. He also enjoyed collecting model trains. After his retirement in 1999, he spent much of his time caring for his 2 grandchildren, and he made sure they experienced a variety of activities including swimming, ice skating, horseback riding, gymnastics, art & music lessons, camping and fishing. He was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Richard Duke. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Loretta Duke; daughter, Cindy Figueroa; son, Garrett Duke; 2 grandchildren, Lukas and Heather Figueroa; and his younger sister, Barbara Boyd.