Raymond Duke
June 28, 1929 - August 01, 2022
Obituary
Heaven gained an angel on August 1, 2022, when Raymond Leon Duke passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Admired, strong, humble, loving, a kind soul, and always willing to lend a helping hand, are just a few ways to describe the man who Raymond was, a true southern gentleman. Ray was born to Jewel and Jack Duke on June 28, 1929, in Burkburnett, Texas. He was raised in a loving family that included older brothers Norman, Vernon, and Noel, and a little sister, Betty. At the age of three, he lost his mother to appendicitis, and he and his siblings were raised by their father. Ray started his career as a pipefitter in 1947, working in Montana, Wyoming, and other states. He served in the Army from 1950 to 1952. After being honorably discharged, he returned to Billings, where he met his future wife, Lorraine. Ray was a member of the Pipefitters Union Local 30 for almost 74 years. He retired from Conoco Refinery where he was well respected for the work he did and served as a mentor to many. Ray married the love of his life, Lorraine Sauther, on March 12, 1955. They have four adoring daughters: Lorri (Rick) Palmer, Renee (Gunnar) Hagstrom, Bernie (Dave) Anderson, and Brenda (Shawn) Ludwig. He was the rock of our family. Ray is survived by his wife, Lorraine; his daughters; ten grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his sister, Betty; brother, Noel (Louise); in-laws, Arnold and Dianne Sauther; Victor and Kathy Sauther; and Betty Sauther, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held for Ray on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at King of Glory Church, 4125 Grand Avenue, Billing, MT. The family would like to thank his in-home caregivers who provided exceptional loving care over the past two years, as well as RiverStone Hospice.
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Memories
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Mark Redding
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Ray was a good guy. He was very sharp at setting up crane lifts, at the Conoco Refinery, among other things. Ray was also, a very competitive racket ball player. He was 27 years older than me, and always hard to beat! I once collided with the back wall, and my own racket, trying to dig out one of his serves. I knocked out my two front teeth, and Ray asked me; "Do you want to keep playing?" haha I said "Ray, I think I better go to the Dentist!" RIP Ray, You will be missed!
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Anonymous
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Dear Rick, Lorri and family, We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Very sincerely, Brian & Julie Boelsterli and family
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Pamela Johnston
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Mike was honored with his name Our family marinated was the same An apple “Lisa” genius brought a kind of fame Much admired for his brain Even late in life he showed the many ways to draw a cube while working in a 2d frame The always ready plumber he became Ready to help and the world explain His hugs so big they require a multiplayer game His steady smile in my heart will remain The ever loving heart a sweet, strong flame ……… How was the kindest man rewarded? A long life, a beautiful wife, and the four most beautiful and kind daughters.
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Dave Anderson
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I can only say what a privelege and honor it has been to call Ray My Father In Law and Friend for almost 40 years.Brilliant,kind,loving and honest puts Ray in a class that most folks wished they could attain, It was Rays everyday demeanor. I love you Ray, like a father, I will miss you always.Dave
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Abby Remington
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Grandpa and grandma took me down to Utah when I was 10. I was so excited I got to skip school and go to my cousin’s graduation. He made sure I had the best time. We stopped to grab something to eat on the way home. It was a trip that I will always remember. He always showed us how much he loved us there was never any doubt. I am going to miss him so much.
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Anonymous
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We love you all, From: Jack, Casey, Tyler, Rachel and Jordyn Seay; Jeff Seay; Chuck Duke.