Drexel James Duke

The son of SGTMAJ (USMC) Thomas E. and Beatrice Chaco Duke, Jim was born on Guam. Being part of a military family found him growing up and attending schools in California and Guam. Jim was quite an athlete who played Junior Varsity and Varsity high school football and was an all-state California Interscholastic Federation varsity wrestler.

After graduation, Jim entered the United States Marine Corps. As a result of his exemplary performance and conduct during his service, Jim quickly moved up the ranks. He held the rank of Sergeant until the end of his service period.

Upon his honorable discharge from military service, Jim returned to Guam and worked at the Naval Ship Repair Facility until its closing. Jim also worked in the construction industry and was a skilled craftsman. Through a National Endowment for the Arts and Guam Council of the Arts and Humanities grant, Jim apprenticed under Enrique Reyes, of the Folk Arts Master-Apprenticeship Program, to complete his bull cart project, Karetan Guaka. The cart and yoke were prominently displayed at the Festival of Pacific Arts in Australia and various Guam festivals and venues. Jim also carved a canoe/galaide which was displayed at the Guam International Airport for a long period. Whatever work Jim pursued, it was done with pride and precision and never was he afraid of hard work.

Always seeking new challenges, Jim also delved into the fishing, aquacultural, agricultural and forestry industries. Jim eventually moved from Guam to seek life and adventure, living in California, Alaska, Washington, Colorado, and finally settling in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In his final journey, Jim has now joined his father, Thomas E. Duke, and his niece, Erica C. Duke, in their heavenly home.

Jim is survived by his son LTCOL (USMC) Jason Duke, daughter-in-law Jamie, and grandchildren Amaya and Andrew Duke; his daughters: Jaymiann Duke, Christy Duke, son-in-law Kevin Yang, and grandson Jayden Yang; and Donica Duke. He is also survived by his mother, Beatrice; his brothers: Tom and Ric Duke; his sisters and in-laws: Shirley (Patty) Guzman, brother-in-law Robert Guzman; Linda Bosse, brother-in-law Brian Bosse; Karen (Cindy) Untalan, and brother-in-law Edward Untalan. Additionally, Jim is survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A family viewing will be held at Palm Mortuary, Boulder Highway, on November 24, 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm.

On November 25, 9:00 am, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St Andrew's Catholic Church, Boulder City, followed by burial at 10:40 am at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Boulder City, Nevada.