Joe G. Duke

Joe G. Duke, 82, of Akron, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 5, 2023. He was born on July 18, 1941 in Akron, Ohio to Robert and Virgie Duke. He graduated from Coventry High School, and attended Kent State University. Joe proudly served his country in Vietnam in the US Army. He retired from Akron General Hospital.

Joe was a lifelong musician, who took great joy in performing for friends and family. He could play the guitar, harmonica, ukulele and banjo, but he was best known for his beautiful singing voice.

He had fond memories of his 1960 red Corvette. He loved bowling and baseball, and had a great sense of humor that will be deeply missed.

Over his life, Joe cherished spending time watching his children and grandchildren in their pursuits. He and his wife, Joanne, were their biggest cheerleaders. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his sister, Dolores (Tom) Kilroy; brothers, Jim and Bob Duke; mother and father-in-law, Phyllis and Kenny McElroy; and brother-in-law, Tom McElroy.

Left to cherish Joe's memory is his wife of 56 years, Joanne Duke; daughter, Stephanie (Ken) Kightlinger; son, Joe (Bernadette) Duke; grandchildren, Lia (Corly) Goehler, Randall (Sierra) Duke, and Erica Duke; great-grandson, Sullivan Goehler; and sisters-in-law, Phyllis and Roberta Duke.

Visitation will take place on Thursday September 28, 2023 from 4pm until 6pm at Newcomer 131 N. Canton Rd, Akron. A funeral service will take place at 6pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joe's memory to the Haven of Rest at www.havenofrest.org/ , or to a food bank of your choice.