We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Frederick Edward Duke on Friday, November 15, 2024. He passed away peacefully at the age of 88, surrounded by his loving family. Fred was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. Born in Boston, MA, he grew up in Allston, MA, and graduated from Brighton High School in 1953. He continued his education at Lowell Tech and Fitchburg State, earning his Bachelor of Science in Engineering. Fred dedicated 36 years of his career to Raytheon, where he made significant contributions to the Patriot Missile ground systems.

Fred met Judy, his loving wife, in 1956 and married in 1960, embarking on a journey that lasted until Judy's passing in March 2024. Their meeting was intertwined when Fred was a tenor drummer for the Immaculate Conception drum corps and Judy was in the Immaculate Conception Drill Team color guard. Fred went on to join the Crusaders drum corps where they formed lasting friendships and made countless memories that will be cherished forever.

Fred was a family man who was deeply loved by his children and grandchildren alike. Affectionately known to his family as "Papa", he was a steadfast source of wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love. He treasured every moment he spent with his grandchildren and was very involved in their lives. Every single one of his "pidsey's" was special to him.

Fred enjoyed the time he spent with his neighborhood crew, Raytheon buddies, Crusader friends and his Brightview pals making lasting memories. He was a devoted father and grandfather, attending his children and grandchildren's activities and milestones with joy and pride. Fred was an avid fan of everything sports. He also loved to travel, visit the theater, and go on family vacations. Nothing was more special than holiday gatherings with his family, especially Christmas games which were the cornerstone of our family traditions. We will carry on these traditions in his honor and memory, ensuring that his legacy lives on through the love he brought to our family.

Fred will be deeply missed by all who have had the pleasure of knowing him. He will live on in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness, generosity, and boundless love. He leaves behind his three children, Kathy (Duke) and her husband Jim Harvey, Cheryl (Duke) and her husband Kevin Francis, and Thomas Duke and his partner Toni Lynn Pakus. He was adored by his grandchildren Courtney Duke, Jaimee (Harvey) and her husband Daniel Bogart, Kevin Harvey and his husband Amir Mojahed, Alyssa (Duke) and her husband Joseph Thibault, Derek Francis, and Sydney Francis, as well as his great-granddaughter Emery Bogart.

Per his wishes, there will be no formal memorial services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to High Pointe Hospice House, 360 North Avenue in Haverhill, MA 01830.