James Edward “Duke” "Duco” LaDuke, Sr., 88, of Chattanooga, died on Wednesday, January 23, 2013.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he had lived in Chattanooga most of his life. He was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving as an Aviation Ordinance Third Class, serving on the USS Core. He worked for several automobile dealers including B.C. Bedford Chevrolet, Amos and Andy Buick (over 40 years) and Kelly Cadillac. He was a well-known customized automobile painter and detailer and also a guard for Moore Detective Agency.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Doris, his parents, George and Bertha Mae LaDuke, five sisters; son-in-law, Larry Smith, Sr.; grandchildren, Larry Smith, Jr. and Brandy Raines; great-grandchildren, Charles Russell Zimmerman III, Britany and Whitney Raines.
Survivors are his six children, Sheila J. (Gene) Tallent, Vernon (Judy) LaDuke, Patricia Smith, Charlotte (Rick) Raines, James E. (Debbie) LaDuke Jr., Deborah C. (Jackie) Moore; he was the loving grandfather of 24 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, 14 great-great-grandchildren and five great-great-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Paul Songer and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 29, at Lane Funeral Home, Ashland Terrace with Brother Bill Proctor officiating. Interment will follow in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. on Monday, and one hour before services on Tuesday at Lane Funeral Home, 601 Ashland Terrace, 877-3524.
Visit www.lanefh.com to share condolences.