Stephen Duke

A limb has fallen from the family tree. I keep hearing a voice that says “Grieve not for me. Remember the best times, the laughter, the song. The good life I lived while I was strong. Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through. My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest. Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small. Go on with your life, don’t worry about falls. I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin. Until the day comes we’re together again.” ~Author Unknown~

On Friday, August 22, 2025, Stephen B. Duke was called to heaven. “Duke” was born on May 3, 1955, to the late Maureen Nickel and Paul Duke in Columbus, OH.

Stephen loved deep sea fishing, Harley Davidsons, and his family. He was strong, hard-working, loyal, witty, loving, and sensitive. He was a fixer, listener, a problem solver, and a master of all trades (he could fix anything!). He was a licensed electrician for over 45 years, most recently a retiree of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where he was also the Union President. Duke was also a 32nd degree with the Neoacacia Masonic Lodge 595.

He was passionate about everything - his knowledge, wisdom, and advice will never be forgotten, as he very frequently expressed his opinions. Stephen always fought for those who had lesser abilities to fight for themselves. He was a true leader of his family, and his love for his family and friends was unmatched.

There are no words to describe the impact he has made on our lives and the lives of so many others, and for how greatly he will be missed. His memory will remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were honored to have known him.

Until we all meet again ♡

In addition to his parents, Stephen is proceeded in death by his grandparents Alice and Paul Duke and Barbara Rodgers; aunt and uncle Mollie and Bernard Helmbright; and his fur children and grand pups Meisha, Shasta, Mercedes, Lexy, Kashmir, and Angel.

He is survived by his loving family, wife Toni; his children Stephen and Crystal Duke; his German Shepherd fur baby girl Cece; grand-pup Lucy; brothers Mathew and Adam Nickel; uncle Anthony Indiciani; nieces and nephews Aimee Hillerich and Rich Wise; cousins Nikki Wagner, Tina Vaughn, Tammie Brandt, Bernie Helmbright; and his many loved extended nieces, nephews, and cousins, Erikka, Ethan, Tristan, Avery, Gage, Tatum, Tyler, Reid, Taylor, Tanner, Bond, Gabe, Thor, Chelsea, and little “queen” Charlotte.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, at Schoedinger Northeast Funeral Home, 1051 East Johnstown Road, Gahanna, OH 43230, from 4:00pm – 7:30pm, with a Masonic Ceremony beginning at 7:30pm.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held the following morning, August 29, at St. Joseph Cemetery’s Mother of Sorrows Chapel, 6440 South High Street, Lockbourne, OH 43137, beginning at 11:00am. Services will conclude with a graveside committal ceremony at St. Joseph Cemetery.