Ernest Eugene Dukes

Ernest "Gene" E. Dukes, age 90, of Kingman passed away on January 31, 2016 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Collison IL on May 9, 1925 to the late Ernest Shelby and Freda (Thompson) Dukes.

He attended Oakwood Schools and married the love of his life Mary Ruth (Cox) Dukes on June 21, 1949 in Danville IL. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1945-1947. He was a member and worked for Labor Local 624 and has built homes, garages, and decks for everyone. He was a guy that loved to stay busy and was always doing something. He was a people person and loved going to the coffee shop every morning.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ruth Dukes of Kingman, one daughter, Karen (Tom Lomax Sr.) Nelson of Tilton IL; three sons, Larry (Chris) Dukes of Oregon, Ben (Karen) Dukes of Kingman, and Brad (Darla) Dukes of Kingman; three sisters, Sue Mercer of OK, Helen (Joe Peloquin) Larrance of Champaign, IL,and Lucy Woodard of Oakwood IL; one brother, Bill Dukes; six grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters; 2 brothers; a son, Steven Lee; and one great grandson.

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 3, 2016 from 4-7pm (EST) at Sanders Funeral Care, 203 S 1st Street, in Kingman with the funeral service at 7pm (EST) with Pastor Brian Newby officiating. Cremation will follow with the burial of cremains on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at 11am (CST) at Oakwood Cemetery in Oakwood IL with American Legion Post 210 from Danville IL performing military rites. Memorial donations may be given to the VA Illiana Health Care System, Voluntary Services, Attn: Palliative Care, 1900 E Main Street, Danville, IL 61832. Share memories and condolences online at www.sandersfuneralcare.com