Dr. W. Richard Dukelow

1936 - 2018

Dr. W. Richard Dukelow

Somers, MT - Dr. W Richard Dukelow, age 81 of Somers, MT passed away January 1, 2018. Richard was born in Princeton, MN on October 23, 1936 to William and Evelyn (Kettleson) Dukelow. He was raised in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana. Richard received his Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D all from the University of Minnesota. From 1964-1969 he was the assistant professor at the University of Georgia From 1969-1974 he was the assistant professor and director of Endocrine Research Center for Michigan State University. From 1975-1999 he became a full professor and director of the Endocrine Research Center. From 1985-1988 was also the Associate Dean of Veterinary Medicine, and from 1993-1995 he also worked for the National Institutes of Health as the Director of Primate Research Centers. During his tenure at Michigan State, "the Chief" mentored 29 graduate students towards successful careers. The culmination of Richard's career at Michigan State was being awarded the Distinguished Faculty award in 1994. Richard spent 36 years as a member of Toastmasters International, was the District Governor of District 62 from 1972-1973, receiving their highest honor of "Distinguished Toastmaster". He was an Eagle Scout, and a member of the Montana Historical Society. His honors and achievements included being a member of MENSA, founding member and past President of the American Science of Primatologists, and past President of the International Primatological Society. Richard's hobbies included outdoor writing with over 200 articles fishing traveling the world, and researching US History. As a youth he spent his summers in the Flathead at his grandfather's farm; which led to his love of the area and his retirement to the valley. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his wives Carol, Vicki, and Lynn. He is survived by his sons Scott Dukelow of Kalispell, MT., Bruce (Janet) Dukelow of Eagle, ID., Kyle (Janel) Dukelow of Portland, OR., grandchildren Matthew, Jacob, and Camilla Dukelow, and great grandchild Adyn. A Funeral service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday January 13, 2018 at First Presbyterian Church in Kalispell with burial to follow at CE Conrad Memorial Cemetery. A celebration of Richard's life will also be held later this summer. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Montana Historical Society. Friends are encouraged to visit our website at www.buffalohillfh.com to leave a note of condolence. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family. GO GREEN !!!!