Duke was a prince of a man and a wonderful teacher of young people. He had a special touch with young shooters that inspired confidence and gave them a sense of “I can do it!” He taught them how to shoot safely and grow in skill and knowledge about the sport and how to conduct themselves as mature sportsmen and women on the range. Duke was a valued and beloved member of our program and will be sorely missed by all those he touched and especially those he coached so effectively.

Our sincere condolences to his family on the loss of Duke. He will be remembered with affection and admiration by his friends at SDSSA .

Don Wilkie - SCTP Coach
Association Life Member

Duke and I became "partners" when he first volunteered to train our staff of young pullers into being Skeet Field Referees. He met with each individual and schooled that individual in the many rules and an insight as to what our Association expected from the individual in way of attitude, dress code and hustle. I also had the opportunity to teamwork with Duke many Sundays during the live fire exercise that augments our Hunter Safety Course. Duke was praised consistently by his peers for his patience and experience with both the young and the not-so-young. I can also remember back to the days that Duke was a fine registered skeet shooter and a gentleman on and off the field. I will miss the caring ways and expertise that Duke brought to our Association. Most of all, I will miss Duke.


Neil Vann - SDSSA Past President
Association Life Member