Donald Norman Duke

I never had the Pleasure of Meeting Him in person But He is one of the Men who Put me on the path of Carson & Colorado/Southern Pacific Narrow gauge as a Historian- You Donald Duke Will be missed & Remembered Allways- James N. Saylor

I too had the great honor of having Duke as a friend, for just over 30 years I guess. A rail expert like none other, I shall cherish the times we spent chasing steam engines across the rails of Southern California and the friendships we made through the Los Angeles Westerners. Duke is now with our author and historian friends, those that left us behind so long ago. Duke was my mentor and I am grateful for all he taught me these past years. I shall miss looking forward to one of his new...

No one shall ever come close to the "rail expert" himself, Donald Duke. I shall always cherish the times we spent together, chasing steam trains, working in his photo lab or attending Westerners (starting at Taix Restaurant) with the other "old farts" that he introduced me to, most of whom are also gone. I had only known Duke for about 30 years but enjoyed the time we had together. He was my mentor and I will always be grateful to him for the direction he gave me.

Steve Crise...

"Good Show" my friend. "See you in the funny papers"...

"Good Show" my friend. See you in the funny papers...

I first encountered Don on Cuesta at Stenner Creek Trestle, July 3, 1954. We were both "shooting" the same train!
We later made a number of trips together in the 1950's chasing steam as it dwindled away.
Don and I both graduated from South Pasadena High, only a year apart. He could be cantankerous at times and held strong opinions. However we maintained a good friendship down through the years. He was an exceptional photographer and taught me a lot about composition.
We had...

The royalty of San Marino was always a great guy to vacation with in the 35 years I knew him. I only wish I had had more time to be with him but I'm glad I made that last trip last spring. My heart goes out to his Niece and Nephew and to Mike Patris and his wife for all they did to take care of Don in his final years.

Don was of great help to me when doing some research a few years ago on Pacific Electric Railway. We had to correspond across the country, in the days before the internet, which he said was "no big deal." He was one great guy. My condolences to the family.

To Mr Duke's surviving family (Nephew?)
We have adopted Peaches and she is doing great, now living in Alaska.
Thanks for working to find her a home.