Dow Frank Duke, 75, died peacefully in his home surrounded by family after a short battle with cancer on February 13th, 2022.
Dow was born in Stigler, Oklahoma on October 4th, 1946.
He graduated as president of the class of 1965 from Stigler Highschool. He continued his education at Eastern State College until being drafted into the United States Army in 1966 and served his country proudly for two years. Before being drafted he married his sweetheart, Jimmie Ann Bishop of Keota, Oklahoma with whom he shared a great life with for 55 years. They have two children, Matthew, and Peter. Nothing brought him more joy than being with his family. He loved being a father and cherished being involved in all family activities; from his children’s education by serving on the Sallisaw school board, coaching little league baseball, attending sporting events, being outdoors; camping, fishing, and tending to his vegetable garden. He enjoyed attending OSU games and his Friday night pool nights in his man cave with his beloved friends. He was employed by Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and AT&T for over 35 years until his retirement. The phone family was a huge part of his life, then and now. He valued the many friendships he made throughout his years there. Dow’s philosophy in life was to always help anyone in need. He led a life of service, and he always did with his great smile. He was a member of First United Methodist Church where he was a part of the Methodist Men’s Organization. He volunteered for Catholic Charities and most recently he dedicated his free time to helping with the food drives during the pandemic. He was faithfully committed to his family here on earth and we know he will continue to look after us in his eternal life.
He is survived by his wife Jimmie, two sons; Matthew Dow Duke (Mirna), Peter Jay Duke (Marisela) and four grandchildren; Mason, Morgan, Melania, Easton, and all his dear animals.
A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church on Wednesday February 16th at 10am. Memorial donations may be made to 1st United Methodist Church 2100 McGee, Sallisaw, Oklahoma 74995
Services and cremation for Dow are under the direction of Forever Memories Funeral Services
463505 Hwy 101, Sallisaw, OK 74955
Fmfsinc.com
He was the sweetest man. I was so blessed to have known him. He was loved and will be dearly missed. Prayers for his family.
So sorry to hear about your loss. I remember him from the telephone company. He was a very polite gentleman. God’s comfort, peace and strength for your family.
Such a great man with such dedication to his family, friends and his community. So sorry for your loss. Praying for peace that surpasses all understanding.
Dow was a good friend. He was always friendly and kind and would give you the shirt off his back. He always was ready to help. He was a great coach of the Sallisaw Reds T-ball team alongside his buddy Freddy Reynolds. The best and most fun coaches in T-ball. He also had fun playing softball for Sallisaw First United Methodist. Dow loved his family and they were the center of his world. I will always value his friendship and have fond memories! Our thoughts and prayers are with his family!❤️🙏
Thinking of your family at this time. I know he will be missed by all. Don and Jimmie Lou Stites.
Sorry to hear of Dow’s passing. Enjoyed our times together . Praying God give you all strength & peace today and in the days ahead
He was one of a kind and we were privileged to have known him.
Larry and I are so sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Matthew, I’m so very sorry for the loss of your dad !!! The obituary told what a wonderful dad he was !!! Sending Great sympathy to you and all your family. All my love and prayers, Patti Rhodes
Condolences to the family. Dow was a great man, and even better neighbor. We will miss him for sure, the world lost a great man.
RIP My Friend, im gonna miss you!!!!!!!!!!!!!
RIP Dow Duke’s family he was a really nice guy
I’m sorry for your loss. Dow, and your entire family, were a great part of my childhood and I have great memories of baseball games, hunting and fishing. Dow was a great man, he will be missed.