DUKE, Gary Joseph - 67 of Sault Ste Marie, Ontario passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at Algoma Residential Community Hospice while surrounded by loved ones.
Gary was born in 1958 to John "Jack" Duke and Doreen Duke in Bracebridge, Ontario and grew up with his brothers and sisters Carol (Morgan), Joanne (Dave), Jim (Brenda), Bob (Donna), Patti (Ted), and Rick (Wendy). Gary is survived by his loving wife Sherri, his children John (Laura), Aaron (Kirsten), and Kelly (Ryan), and his brothers Jim, Bob, and Rick. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters. Papa, Pops, you’ll be missed more than you know by your grandchildren Scarlett, Nadia, Parker, Finlay, Jordan, Mackenzie, Ava, and Andee. Your good morning and good night texts will be missed by all.
Gary met the love of his life in 1980 when he walked into Modern cab company looking for a job. Little did he know, Sherri had seen him walking the day before and said to herself, “That’s the man I’m going to marry”, and for the next 45 years they were inseparable. Gary will always be "Ducky" to mom (Bonnie Hart). Gary always cherished his friendships, especially his visits with Jake, Blackie, and Leo, when he could no longer leave home. He loved spending time over coffee reminiscing. Gary always loved dogs and treated them as family members. Shiloh and Gracie are missing you.
Thank you to the Sault Ste Marie Paramedics who showed kindness and compassion during the dozens and dozens of times you brought Gary to the hospital over the years. Mitch and Jay, you will forever hold a special place in our hearts. You consistently went above and beyond and are a model for what caregivers should aspire to. Thank you to Chief Paramedic Katie Kirkham for jumping at the opportunity to have Mitch and Jay take Gary to one last Hounds game the week before he died. Because of your generosity Gary got to spend an afternoon doing what he loved with some of the most important people in his life. Thank you to the Soo Greyhounds players and organization for making Gary feel special that day.
Thank you to Paramed nurse Dan for all his care. Thank you to the Bayshore PSWs, especially Michele and Lisa, for the tenderness and care you provided. Thank you to the nurses and PSWs on 3C that always took special care of Gary, making it easier to leave him at night. Dr. Booth, your dedication to your patients is spectacular and Gary and his family were lucky to have you taking care of him for the past few years.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Emmaus Anglican Church (1643 Wellington St. East) from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East 705-759-2522) Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com
Thank you, donor, for the nearly 11 extra years you gave Gary. Because of you he got to see the births of his grandchildren. Memorial contributions to ARCH. Please register to be an organ donor at www.beadonor.ca.