Ronald Paul LaDuke

He was born in Syracuse, NY as the son of Glenn Francis La Duke & Wanda Bielecki La Duke.

Ronald is survived by his wife of 40 years, Debra, his children: Ronald La Duke, Jr., Nicole Fabel, Heather Unsworth, Danielle Zimmerman, Lauren Lombardo, David La Duke, and Matthew La Duke; his grandchildren: Avery La Duke, Rebecca La Duke, Brianna Santiago, Brooke Santiago, Logan Unsworth, Shaylyn Unsworth, Abigail Zimmerman, Ethan Zimmerman, and Landon La Duke; his sister, Carole Benson; his nephews, Christopher Benson and Taylor Benson; and his niece Jessica Benson.

He was also father and grandfather to his favorite companions, Scruffey and Jakey, respectively.

Ronald served in the federalized Army National Guard and Florida Army National Guard from 1966 to 1973. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, U.S. Army Sharpshooter Badge (M14), and the U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal. He was always proud of his service and status as a veteran. Ronald was an active member of the American Legion Post 178 and commander of its baseball program.

He shared his love of baseball with all of his children who he taught to play. He also coached many youth baseball and softball teams throughout the years.

He attended multiple colleges and universities before and after his military service. After graduation, he returned to hotel management with his father at Rolling Hills (Grande Oaks) Country Club in Davie, FL. Ronald was always happy to share his memories of the filming of "Caddyshack" there. His love for golf was also shared with his family.

Eventually, Ronald utilized his managerial accounting skills and love of numbers & finance to found La Duke & La Duke, P.A., an accounting, tax preparation, financial and legal services firm. In addition, he currently was also Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and accountant for Maritime Professional Training, a school for commercial mariners and yachting professionals. He cared very deeply for his clients and colleagues who he considered friends and family.

Ronald also enjoyed cooking and baking as well as hosting for the holidays.

His family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, medical assistants, and staff at Steward Florida Medical Center in Lauderdale Lakes for their exceptional care.

A private funeral service & burial will be held by the family.

Ronald will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

The La Duke family thanks everyone for their thoughts and prayers.