Daryl Wendell Duke

1926 - 2010

Daryl Wendell Duke November 11, 1926 - March 25, 2010 Daryl Wendell Duke went home to be with his Lord on March 25, 2010 after a long struggle with complications from Parkinson's disease. He was born to Winsea and Dona Duke on November 13, 1926 in Stratford, Oklahoma. After a stint in the Navy in the mid forties, Daryl was married to Gwendola Humes of Oklahoma for over sixty years, with that marriage blossoming until his recent departure for heaven. Daryl and Gwen came to California in 1950, set up a wonderful home in Wasco, became pillars of the community and began raising their family during their working years. During the couple's time in Wasco, Daryl worked as the School District Manager of Operations and Transportation, a reserve police officer, a superb mechanic for the Chevrolet garage and King Lumber Company. Daryl was also involved in the Veteran's of Foreign Wars, various youth programs, the First Southern Baptist Church of Wasco, and was a general blessing for those who could not afford vehicle repairs at the dealership. After retirement in the early 90's, the couple moved to their mountain dream home in Stallion Springs, returning to the country life, making many new friends and becoming members of the Stallion Springs Church. Daryl and Gwen were regulars at the various coffee shops in Tehachapi, brightening the days of many waitresses for almost twenty years. Daryl leaves his wife Gwen and the following sons and their wives: Freddie & Cheryl of Joshua, Texas, Steve & Becky and Dale & Raylene of Bakersfield. Also left for now are his brother Robert & wife, Debbi of Bakersfield and loving sister Juanita of Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Daryl's brother Joe Carl left for heaven on August 30, 2007, leaving behind his lifelong spouse, Joy, who is loved by all. He also leaves temporarily, many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren in California and Texas whom he loved very much. He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Winsea and Dona, who provided many summer vacation experiences for all the kids at the farm in Oklahoma. Final arrangements and visitation are being coordinated by the Wood Family Funeral Home in Tehachapi who can be reached at (661) 822-6897. Interment will be at the National Cemetery on Highway 58 and Highway 223, just East of Bakersfield. All are welcome! www.bakersfield.com/obits