Michael Charles Duke

1956-1997

Michael Charles Duke was born to Paul and Cecilia (McCann) Duke. The second of eight children, Michael grew up in Ridley Township, PA. He attended Georgetown University where he met his wife, Ann Del Grippo, and he attended Georgetown University Law Center. The couple married in 1982 and have four children. Michael’s most recognizable qualities were his faith, his loyalty, and his humor. Shortly after marrying, Michael and Ann moved to West Chester, PA to start their family, and Michael’s faith led him to join St. Agnes parish where his children attended the parish school. His loyalty towards family and friends was profound. No friend -nor sports team- could find a more passionate supporter, and St. Agnes School and parish benefited from his generous contribution of time and resources. And with his humor, no person could spend time with Michael without laughing at a joke, an observation, a mimic. The most important focus of Michael’s life was his four children, and he loved spending time with them. Weekends were full of family projects and activities. In 1993, Michael was diagnosed with biliary cancer and family life changed significantly. During a four-year courageous yet painful battle, he fought for one goal everyday: “I want to live to raise my kids.” During that time, Michael and Ann both took great comfort from the stability their children received at school. From the principal to the teachers to the parents, all enfolded the Duke family with love, prayers, stability, and a place where the children could be simply children and could grow and thrive in the face of great difficulty. Michael died in 1997, and is remembered fondly by his large family and friends for his love of family, food, football and fun.