Daniel B. "Dan" Duke, Sr., at the age of  81, passed away April 26, 2019, in Lakeland, Florida.

He was born May 30, 1937, in Winter Park, Florida and was raised in Dallas, Texas, until he joined the Navy in 1954.  Dan had been a Bowling Green resident since 1961.  He was an active member of the community and a member of First United Methodist Church of Wauchula.  He retired from United Telephone Co./ Sprint in 2002, after many years of service.

Dan was an exceptional individual, always liked sharing stories, telling a good joke, and spending time with family and friends.  He was a loving husband, caring father and grandfather.  Dan was an avid bowler and  his favorite day of the week was always Wednesday, because that was the day he was able to bowl with his league friends. After retirement he enjoyed working in his grove and yard, going fishing with his friends, watching war movies, and riding around on his John Deere Gator.  Dan also enjoyed having his morning coffee with his buddies, trying to solve the world's problems.

He is survived by his wife, Janet Duke, of 56 years, his daughter, Tami Rhodes, and son, Daniel B. Duke, Jr., (Amy), his five grandchildren, Emily Rhodes, Jarret Carlton, Jammal Carlton, Abby Duke, and Trenton Duke. Also, his brother, Bill (Wanda) Duke and sister, Margaret Smith Cauley, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Olon and Mary Duke, his baby brother, Jerry Olon, and his daughter, Denna Duke Carlton.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 3rd, at First United Methodist Church of Wauchula, 207 North 7th Avenue. Visitation with family and friends will start at 10:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of his life service, starting at 11:00.  He will be laid to rest in the Bowling Green Cemetery, following the services.  In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to the First United Methodist Church  Wauchula, Florida or St. Jude.

Online condolences can be made at pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.