David Steve Duke

David Steve Duke passed away on January 12, 2026, surrounded by family who loved him and were shaped by his larger-than-life joy. He was 83.

Born in May 1942, David grew up with a craftsman’s hands, a storyteller’s wit, and a dancer’s light feet. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, he built a long career with El Paso Natural Gas Company, the kind of colleague you wanted on your team—steady, inventive, and loyal. He and the love of his life, Gail, shared 60 years of marriage filled with music, faith in one another, faith in God, and a home that always had a spare seat at the table. David turned most days into a reason to celebrate.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Duke; his children Shane Duke (wife Andrea), Kelly Duke (wife Amy), Ashly Desautels (partner Mundo), and Casey Cox (husband John); and a legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were his pride and delight:

• Grandchildren: Holly Duke (proceeded in death); Taylor Duke (daughter Mia); Bobby Duke (children Kalob, Evelyn, Dawson); Cierra Ribald (children Mylah, Eleanor (Ellie), Anakin); Kassandra Whitener (children Skylar, RJ, Kerian); Dylan Whitener; Samantha Hougham (children Sebastian, Theodore, Charlotte); Hunter Soffel (daughter Hazel).

David loved people—neighbors, coworkers, cashiers, and anyone lucky enough to be caught in his magnetic orbit. He taught his children and grandchildren how to work hard, laugh loud, dance often, and show up for one another. The list of those who survive him is long, but it is also his greatest testament: a life poured into family, friends, and community.

A celebration of David’s life will be held at a later date (details to be announced). In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor him in the way he lived: share a meal with someone you love, fix something with your hands, tell a good story, and dance in the kitchen.

“Bigger than life” isn’t a saying—it was David. And his love remains.