Donald Charles LaDuke

Donald Charles LaDuke, a devoted husband, father, and proud Navy Veteran, peacefully passed away on November 1, 2024, at the age of 90 in Denver, North Carolina.

 Born on December 21, 1933 in Detroit, Michigan to Emmanuel and Dorothy LaDuke, Donald led a life filled with service and love. He served his country with honor in the United States Navy, a chapter in his life that he cherished deeply.

Following his military service, Donald found his lifelong partner, Barbara, whom he married on October 1, 1955, at the Assumption Grotto Catholic Church in Detroit. Together, they raised nine cherished children, creating a loving and supportive home filled with laughter and joy. Donald was a dedicated father and later found immense happiness in being a grandfather and great-grandfather.

During his career at Detroit Edison where he served for over 40 years and retired as a lineman supervisor, Donald's commitment and work ethic were exemplary. He devoted his free time to his passions, including car racing, instilling this love in his sons and grandchildren. An avid fisherman, Donald found solace by the water, always grateful for the beauty of nature. He was also a proud member of the VFW Post 6691, where he would coach baseball and basketball.

Donald's sense of humor, contagious laughter, and compassionate nature touched the lives of all who knew him. He was known for his warmth, kindness, and ability to bring joy to those around him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

Beloved husband of Barbara LaDuke; loving father of Donald (Shelley) LaDuke, Diane (the late Alan) Jackson, Steve (Sue) LaDuke, Catherine (the late Fred) Boles, Cynthia (Jim) Hay, Mark (Elaine) LaDuke, James (Dee) LaDuke, David (Denise) LaDuke, and Linda (James) Ferns; proud grandfather of 22 grandchildren; treasured great-grandfather of 19 great-grandchildren; and dearest brother of Thomas (Lauretta) LaDuke. Donald is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, family and numerous friends.

Donald is reunited with his parents Emmanuel and Dorothy LaDuke, and brother Raymond LaDuke.

Visitation to take place on Friday, November 8 from 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Lee-Ellena Funeral Home. Funeral Mass to take place on Saturday, November 9 at St. Isidore Catholic Church. Instate, or gathering time, 11:30 AM. Mass at 12:00 PM. Procession to Resurrection Cemetery to follow where military honors and entombment will take place.

Donald Charles LaDuke will forever be remembered for his unwavering love, his dedication to family, and his infectious spirit that lit up the lives of those around him. May he rest in peace, knowing he leaves behind an enduring legacy of love and laughter.

Memorial donations in Donald's honor may be made to the St. Jude's Children's Hospital 

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