Gail Duke

Gail Duke, 86, of Traverse City passed away Thursday, July 20, 2017, at Munson Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. Gail was born on Thursday, October 23, 1930, to Edward R. and Edith (Possinger) Hawkins in Detroit, MI. Gail grew up in the Ferndale area and attended Highland Park Junior College where she met her soulmate and forever love, Thomas ‘Tom’ Duke, Sr. Gail and Tom were married in Dearborn, MI on December 1, 1951, and moved to Charlevoix in 1971 where they raised their three children. In 1984 they moved to Florida and wintered there for 30 years returning to Charlevoix in the summer time. The last few years of their marriage they lived in Traverse City at Cordia to be close by their two daughters. Tom adored his wife of 65 years, often remarking that she was “perfection," and amazed at the fact that when she woke up, no matter what, she always had a smile for him. They did almost everything together. Boating in the North Channel and Georgian Bay, traveling the world, raising children, playing tennis, skiing, summering on Oyster Bay on Lake Charlevoix were just some of the wonderful experiences they had together and with their many friends. She was a loving, devoted wife and mother, teaching her children grace and love through example. We as her children felt her complete and unconditional love, always. She loved her husband completely and supported him in every way, not complaining even when early in Tom’s home building career they moved 17 times in under 20 years! None of us have ever heard her say a bad word of anyone, she was easily able to see the positive in others and situations. She was active in the Charlevoix community with her time and talents, and loved singing in the choir at the First Congregational Church. She was someone who loved and devoted her life to her family and was content with who she was. She also baked the best brownies in the world. She is survived by her husband Thomas Duke, Sr., daughters Nancy Duke, Susan (Kevin) Malone, son Thomas Duke, Jr. (Marilyn); grandchildren Mason Duke, Trevor Duke, Adam Waggoner, Abigail Waggoner and Madison Malone. Also 3 ‘granddogs’ Daisy, Georgia and Penny. She was preceded in death by her parents Edward R. and Edith (Possinger) Hawkins, half-sister Dorothy Hawkins; and half-brother Edward ‘Bud’ Hawkins Per Gail’s wishes cremation has taken place. The family of Gail Duke will be holding a private service to honor Gail on September 2, 2017. Those wishing an expression of sympathy may direct contributions to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 5228, Traverse City, MI 49696 or The Pathfinder School, 11930 SW Bay Shore Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684.

Gail Duke

October 23, 1930 - July 20, 2017