Ralph Duke's Obituary
Graveside services for Ralph Duke, age 87 of Longview, Texas will be held Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at 12 Noon at Rosewood Park with Chas Shira officiating. He was born August 12, 1926 in Carthage, Texas and passed away Sunday, May 25, 2014.
A retired Pharmacist, Mr. Duke owned Duke Pharmacy in Longview and also worked at both local hospitals in Longview, missing only one day of work in his career of 50 plus years.
Mr. Duke served in the Medical Detachment in the 35th Infantry Regiment 25th Division in the Asiatic Pacific Theater of Operations during WWII receiving the Purple Heart Medal, then graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 1950. He was a member of Winterfield United Methodist Church and was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Rose Marie Duke.
Survivors include son Mike Duke and wife Jennifer of Longview; daughter Betty Jane Wilson and husband Allen of Ponte Beach, Florida; daughter Joyce Ann Ballard and husband Bruce of Austin; grandchildren Kevin, Angela and Hannah Duke, all of Longview; Katherine Cook and husband Kyle of Tyler; Jennifer Wiggins and husband Adam of Gilmer; Valerie Wilson of Austin; Denise Benedict and husband Andy of Frisco; great grandchildren. Alexis and Caroline Cook of Tyler, and Jaxon Benedict of Frisco.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd. Tyler Texas 75701.
Jennifer and Mike Duke will receive visitors Tuesday evening, May 27, 2014 at Rader Funeral Home of Longview from 5:30-7:30 PM.
A memorial guestbook may be signed online at www.raderfh.com.
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