William “Bill” Howard Duke II

William Howard Duke II “Bill” one of the last real cowboys, completed his earthly mission on September 13, 2025, at his home, peacefully in his sleep. He was the oldest of nine children born to William Howard and Ellen S. Child Duke on August 16, 1942, in Heber City, Utah. He was a lifelong resident of the Heber Valley, spending the last 30 years on his ranch in Center Creek.

Bill was blessed with parents who loved each other, their children, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ; he was taught well. Bill grew up enjoying life in a small town with ample freedom to explore the mountains, riding his horse or hiking, and camping with his boyhood friends. He graduated from Wasatch High School and attended Utah Trade Technical College, where he became a welder.

He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the North Central States Mission. He was drafted into the Army and served in Vietnam as a gunner. He contracted Agent Orange, which affected his health later in life. In 1971, he married the love of his life, MaryLue Waldbeiser, in the Salt Lake Temple. Seven children were born to them: Jane Elizabeth (deceased), Lisa (Matt) Weller, Will (Sonya), Justin (Christy), Jared (Julie), Tyrell (Heidi), and Jacob (Shannon). Bill has 22 grandchildren.

He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bill loved the Book of Mormon and studied it continually. He served in many capacities in the Church: counselor in a bishopric, high priest group leader, elders quorum president, and gospel doctrine teacher.

Bill was a welder, truck driver, and manager of a grocery store. He and his brother Ralph owned a cattle operation and bought and sold farmland. Bill and his sons raised, trained, and sold horses. He was happiest when on horseback, riding in the mountains. He was easy to recognize: tall, wearing a cowboy hat, Levis, boots, and a mustache.

He is survived by his wife and children; sisters Mary Duke, Nioma Duke, and Margene (David) Lake; and sisters-in-law Kim Duke, and Gloria (Allen) Huffaker.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Jane Elizabeth, grandson John, parents, brother Ralph, and sisters Alice, Janet, Shirley, and Kathryn. Also, mother and father-in-law John and Toma Waldbeiser. (Written by Bill)

”By g’ll Bill, it’s been quite a party.” ~Lonesome Dove

Celebration of Life will be held:

Monday, September 22, 2025

5:30pm- 7:30pm 

2395 S Mill Road, Heber City, Utah. 

All are welcome to attend.