Native Petaluman, age 91 years. Duke was the loving husband of Ruth Iversen for over 21 years and to Elizabeth Iversen for over 45 years. Father to Ann and Chris Iversen; Grandfather to Sarah Conlon and David Iversen; and Great-grandfather to Elliott Conlon. He loved his whole family, cherishing numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and of course his new great-grandson.
Duke grew up on Roblar Road and was a graduate of Petaluma High School. He played football at the University of Oregon and was especially proud of his team's victory over USC in 1941. Duke served in World Warll as a Marine combat training instructor. After the war he played another year of college football and was elected as the West team captain in the 1947 East West Shrine All Star Game in which the West was victorious 13 to 7. A rookie at age 28, he was drafted by the New York Giants, then later became a star linebacker with the New York Yankees, battling such teams as the Cleveland Browns, Chicago Bears, LA Rams, and San Francisco 49'ers. Some of the game's innovations during his pro career included a change from leather to reinforced plastic helmets and the introduction of the face mask.
Duke was also a rancher and real estate agent and was active for years in Rotary. He retired from real estate at age 81 and enjoyed watching the Oakland A's on TV with his beloved Ruth. Together they kept track of the different wild birds that frequented their lovely garden.
At the request of Duke private family services were held. If you wish to remember Duke by making a donation in his name, please contact: Stand Up to Cancer, File 1224, 1801 W. Olympic Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91199-1224.