Darek L. "Duke" Stroup

Darek "Duke" Laverne Stroup, born on April 13, 1969, in Marion, Indiana, and he passed away unexpectedly on October 12, 2025, in Gas City, Indiana. He was 56 years old. Duke's life was a testament to the joy he found in everyday moments and the love he shared with family and friends. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Duke was the beloved son of Dennis Stroup and Linda (Almond) Stroup. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Stroup; stepmother, Marjorie Stroup; paternal grandparents, Bernard and Elizabeth Stroup; maternal grandparents, Laverne and Dorothy Almond; beloved uncle, Richard "Dick" Stroup; and dear friend, Rodney.
Duke is survived by his father, Dennis Stroup; daughter, Halle Stroup, and her mother, Andrea Linn; daughter, Chelsey Young; son, Cory Zoda; bonus son, Nolan Mansfield; brother, Barry (Christa) Stroup; sister, Sherri Miller; two nephews; three nieces; thirteen great-nephews and great-nieces; and his cat, Frank.
Duke was a precocious child, and his curiosity and high energy often made for memorable moments that are enjoyed and laughed about by his family to this day. Growing up in Wabash and Marion, Duke attended Southwood High School before graduating from Oak Hill High School in 1987. He was known for his athletic prowess, demonstrating his natural talent as a dedicated athlete. Duke was recognized as one of the top 100 football players in Grant County history, distinguished as one of the top five receivers in the state of Indiana for three years, and was an Indiana North/South All-Star. Duke participated in semi-state wrestling, showcasing his competitive spirit and athleticism.
Duke was a person who lived life to the fullest. He had a larger-than-life personality that made everyone feel welcome and valued. Those who had the pleasure of knowing Duke often recall his joyful spirit, his knack for telling jokes, and the warmth of his presence. Duke loved to hug his family and friends, the kind of hugs that make one feel safe and cared for. Duke never outgrew his love for rollercoasters and thrills. He enjoyed watching movies and had a knack for memorizing lines from movies and reciting them.
Professionally, Duke made his mark as a store manager at Foot Locker, where he was known for his engaging personality and ability to connect with customers. He later worked as a forklift driver for General Motors, earning respect for his hard work and dedication.
Duke had a love for most sports from a very young age, often creating ways to play catch by himself, whether using a roof or outrunning a ball he passed or threw to himself. Sports continued to bring him immense joy as an adult. He spent much of his free time perfecting his golf swing and rolling strikes at the bowling alley with friends. He was a loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan, faithfully cheering them on even through the toughest seasons. Duke made it his mission to turn everyone into a Cardinals fan--especially Cubs fans.
Friends and family are invited to honor Duke's memory and share their stories of love and laughter during visitation hours from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN 46952. A celebration of life service will immediately follow at 2:00 pm with Pastor Andre Mitchell officiating. Burial will take place at Grant Memorial Park.
A meal will be served at the Plymouth Club from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The Stroup family requests that you come dressed in comfortable clothing and wear a ball hat if you desire, because Duke despised not being able to wear one of his cherished hats to funerals.
Duke would want his family and friends to understand that making amends is essential to healing--both for ourselves and for those we love. In his final years, he found peace in mending his own heart and renewing the relationships that meant the most to him.
As we say goodbye to a beloved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend, we remember Duke for the joy he brought into our lives, the lasting impact he made on those who knew him, and, of course, his unforgettable collection of terrible dad jokes.
Memorials may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.