Posted on 09/16/2019
William Richard DUKES (AUGUST 2, 1940 – SEPTEMBER 9, 2019)
William R. Dukes died on September 9, 2019 in Henderson, Nevada of natural causes. Bill was born on August 2, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan and grew up in Toledo, Ohio. After one year as a Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Toledo, he received a Congressional appointment to the United States Naval Academy where he graduated on June 5, 1963. He completed his MBA at the University of Denver in 1976. On graduation day, Bill married his true love, Hettie Merkel, in the Naval Academy chapel. Hettie was also of Toledo, Ohio.
Bill was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force and was stationed at McClellan AFB in Sacramento, California as a Procurement Contract Officer. He was the base squash champion for three years and competed in several AF Worldwide tournaments. After receiving an honorable discharge as a Captain, he began a successful career in business. Bill was the President, CEO and Director of several high-tech electronics, hardware and software companies in Nevada and Washington, ultimately leading two successful public stock offerings. He retired in 2010 after the sale of a venture capital-owned company he was managing.
In retirement, he was the co-founder of Friends of Nevada Southern Railway Live Steamers in Boulder City, Nevada. The volunteer group built the only 7 1/2” gauge public railroad in Nevada and provided free rides on scale railroad equipment to thousands of adults and children each year. Bill spent countless hours as a dedicated volunteer at the Nevada State Railroad Museum. He also enjoyed woodworking, various model building and metal working projects, and spending time with his family. Bill led a very active life pursuing activities such as sailing, racquetball, hiking and riding his mountain bike.
He is survived by his wife, Hettie; Brother, Gerald (Colette); Sons James (Paris), Todd, and Jason (Marie); Grandchildren Natalie, Grace and Jacob. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Leona, and daughter-in-law, Alison. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Palm Eastern Mortuary
Las Vegas, NV
702-464-8500
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/las-vegas-nv/william-dukes-8851911