Brian G. "Duke" Walsh

Brian "Duke" Walsh

November 6, 1954 – December 13, 2025

Brian "Duke" Walsh, beloved husband, father, son, brother, teammate, mentor, and friend, passed away on December 13, 2025, after a battle with dementia. He was 71 years old.

Born and raised in Cambridge, MA, Duke was the self-proclaimed, well-adjusted middle child in a remarkable family of eleven children, born to Jack and Helen Walsh. Smaller in stature but larger than life in spirit, he distinguished himself early on with a blend of humility, humor, and heart that defined him throughout his life.

Duke's athletic gifts quickly became evident during his early childhood days and allowed him to matriculate to Matignon High School, where he shone as a tremendous competitor on the ice. His talent and dedication carried him to the University of Notre Dame, where he etched his name into the annals of Irish athletics. A force on the ice, Duke earned All-American honors and remains the all-time leading scorer in Notre Dame hockey history.

It was at Matignon that Duke met Claire, who became his devoted partner and remained by his side until the day he passed.

Together, they married and built a warm, close-knit family grounded in love, laughter, and gratitude. Duke's greatest pride and joy were his children, Rory and Caroline, whom he cherished wholeheartedly and without reservation. His family remained the central focus of his life.

After completing his athletic career, Brian translated his competitive drive, leadership, and teamwork into an extremely successful business career in sales and marketing. He approached his work with the same integrity and enthusiasm that defined his life: giving his best, uplifting those around him, and building lasting relationships grounded in respect and trust.

Brian was a true gentleman and a mentor to everyone who had the good fortune to know him. Whether in sports, in business, or in everyday life, he lifted others up with encouragement, kindness, and quiet wisdom. Duke was a tremendous teammate and friend to all who knew him. His loyalty, encouragement, and easy laughter made him a cherished presence in locker rooms, boardrooms, and living rooms alike.

Brian found his greatest joy in his grandchildren - Abigail, William, and Keely. Duke adored them with a wholehearted enthusiasm that brought out his playful side, and he cherished each moment spent with them. Whether sharing stories, laughter, or quiet moments, Brian made every grandchild feel uniquely seen and deeply loved. His eyes would light up in their presence, and their visits were treasures he held close to his heart. The bond he shared with Abigail, William, and Keely was a testament to his boundless capacity for love, and the memories they made together will continue to bring warmth and comfort to all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Claire of Milton, MA; his son and daughter-in-law, Rory and Moira, and their two children, William and Keely of Westwood, MA; his son-in-law, Patrick Keenum, and granddaughter Abigail of Atlanta, GA; siblings Philip and wife Marguerite of Clinton, MA, and Patrick and wife Pattie of Haverhill, MA; countless loving relatives and devoted friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Caroline; his parents, Jack and Helen, his father-in-law, William, and mother-in-law, Mary; his brothers and sisters John, Helen, Robert, Sheila, T.J., Dennis, Barry, and Maureen.

A celebration of Brian's life will be held with his family and community, honoring a man whose legacy extends far beyond records and accolades - a life lived with heart, courage, and an enduring spirit.

A wake will be held at St. John's the Evangelist, 2254 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA on January 15, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at St. John's the Evangelist on January 16, 2026 at 11 a.m. Internment to be scheduled for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Duke's memory to the Mass General Alzheimer's Research Foundation, in support of ongoing research and care for those affected by Alzheimer's disease.

May he rest in peace, his memory a blessing to all who knew and loved him.