May 22, 1949 September 13, 2024
May 22, 1949 -- September 13, 2024

Richard Spence Duke

Richard Duke, born on May 22, 1949, passed away on September 13, 2024, at the age of 75, in Plano. He leaves behind a legacy filled with love, generosity, and numerous accomplishments both personally and professionally. 
 
Richard was a cherished husband to Judith Rindflish Duke, a devoted father to Tristan A. Duke and his wife Karen L. Duke, and Lindsey E. Duke and her wife Debbie Fontana. He was also a proud grandfather to Tristan A. Duke II. His extended family includes his mother-in-law Mary Scheid and her husband Fred Knauer, sisters-in-law Kathy Rindflish Rogers, LaDonna Rindflish, and Donna Scheid, along with nieces Kayla Rindflish Cox and her husband Pete Cox, and Mikelle Rindflish and her husband Matt Borowick. Richard was preceded in death by his mother Glenda Spence Duke, father Dean Duke, and brother-in-law Mikel Rindflish.
Richard attended Southern Methodist University, which laid the foundation for his successful career as a Vice President of Healthcare in the IT industry. His professional achievements were only surpassed by his personal passions. Richard was an avid golfer, hunter, and wine enthusiast, who also cherished traveling. Above all, his greatest joy was the time spent with his family and friends.
 
A service to celebrate Richard's life will be held on September 27, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Eastgate Funeral Home, located at 12973 LBJ Freeway, Garland, Texas 75041. The family welcomes friends and loved ones to join them in remembering a truly remarkable individual.

Condolences

Kay Schleich September 25, 2024

Friend Roseville , Illinois

Judith, Tristan, Lindsey and my special Grandson Tristan.....May God hold you in his hands during these emotional times. I enjoyed the times we all went to dinner during my visits. The first time I met Richard was at my daughter's home (Jill) while celebrating our mutual Grandsons' birthday. Richard was so excited about being a Grandpa, and shared his excitement with me. He was gracious and offered to assist with transportation whenever I flew in to visit my Grandson, if my daughter was unable.

Aaron Grandison September 22, 2024

Friend and Mentee Frisco , Texas

Dear Judith, I was deeply saddened to hear of Richard's passing, and I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. I first met Richard over 25 years ago when I moved to Texas, and I was incredibly fortunate to have him as my first mentor in healthcare IT. His wisdom and patience guided me through those early days, and his unique sense of humor made learning a joy. I still chuckle at the way he translated Texan phrases for me—"dark thirty" meant early in the morning and "stink pretty" meant men’s cologne. His advice on how to order a steak will always stick with me: tell your server to "knock the horns off, wipe its nose, say the word fire and put it on a plate!" Richard was not only a trusted professional but also a wonderful friend who brought laughter and light to any gathering. I know I’m not alone in feeling that he will be sorely missed. He truly was one of the good ones. Once again, please accept my condolences. My thoughts are with you and the family during this time. Warm regards, Aaron Grandison