Obituary of Ernest Dukes

Dukes, Ernest G. "Ernie" Age 79. Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at his residence in Arizona following a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Centralia, IL, a lifelong Joliet area resident relocating to Arizona just one year ago. A U.S. Army Korean War veteran. Retired from UniRoyal Corporation in 1987 after over 21 years of service. A lifetime member of Harwood Post American Legion #5 where he served as Commander on two separate occasions. Member of the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge #300, Cantigny Post #367 VFW; and past member of Joliet Elks Lodge #296. Preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Willie Gray (nee Kelly) Dukes; four brothers and three sisters. Survived by his loving and devoted wife of 55 years, Jolene P. (nee White) Holmes Dukes of Joliet; two sons, Jay (Leeann) Dukes of Romeoville, and Bill (Sharel) Holmes of Arizona; one daughter, Patty (Mike) Forest of Shorewood; two sisters, Barbara (Jim) Hoover of Florida and Lila (the late Tom) Gronameyer of Michigan; four grandchildren, Kirklin Dukes, April (Sean) Gaynor, Chris and Kevin Holmes; two great grandchildren; Skyler Holmes and Shane Gaynor; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Funeral services for Ernest G. Dukes will be Saturday, October 6, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home chapel. Rev. Bob Hahn officiating. Interment Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation Friday 4:00-8:00 p.m. FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOMES 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet For information: (815) 741-5500