William Andrew Pukas III

A 1987 graduate of Haddon Township High School in NJ, Duke proudly earned his Bachelor’s degree in Literature from the University of North Texas. He spent most of his adult life in Austin, Texas, where he was the Head Chef for Feast and Merriment Catering, admired for his sharp wit, brilliance, effortless charm, authenticity, and loyalty.

Duke’s passions were as eclectic as they were profound. He had a deep love for jazz music, a gift for creating culinary masterpieces without recipes, and spent countless hours writing, playing, recording and mixing music with his Gibson guitar. William thrived in new adventures, near and far—whether exploring new landscapes and cuisines in foreign countries, catching the sun sear the horizon's edge with his beloved dog Coleman, or hiking the majestic mountains of Colorado. Wonderment always brought him back to nature. He was deeply moved by the writing of Annie Dillard, whose exploration of nature and the human experience resonated with his own introspective soul. Although Duke’s inquisitiveness was complicated, bewildering, and infectious, he made everyone he connected with feel understood and extraordinary.

A dear friend beautifully described Duke as the kind of person who “left deep and lasting impressions on those he met, like the fossilized imprint of a dinosaur.” His friendships, cultivated over many phases of his life, remain strong and enduring, a testament to the person he was. Duke was a generous and righteous soul who believed everyone had a voice and deserved to be seen.

He is survived by his devoted parents, Bonnie and Bill Pukas, his loving sister Coleen and brother-in-law Rob, and his niece and nephews, Lauren, Brody, and Greyson.

With 2 trillion galaxies and 200 billion stars in each, Duke is saying, “I’m good. No rush, but tag, you’re it.”

Until then, you beautiful boy.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with his family on Saturday May 10, 2025 11:00AM - 12:30 pm at the Blake-Doyle Funeral Home, 226 Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ 08108. A Celebration of life service will follow at 12:30 pm. Attendees are welcome to reflect in silence or share their stories about Duke. Afterwards, Bonnie and Bill Pukas will host a luncheon at a restaurant near the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a scholarship fund in Duke’s honor. This annual scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior from Haddon Township High School, his alma mater, who plans to pursue a degree in the Arts. Details on how to donate will be shared soon.