Duke Ehler, a man with a big personality and an even bigger heart, left an indelible mark on the lives of those around him. His passing on March 31, 2025, was met with an outpouring of love and support from his family, friends, and community. As we gathered around his bedside the day before his passing, we were reminded of the countless memories we shared with Duke. We laughed together, we cried together, and we knew that those moments would stay with us forever. Duke’s love for his family, friends, and community was palpable, and it’s a testament to his character that he will be deeply missed. Duke was born on February 22, 1931, in New Haven, Connecticut, to Irwin and Isabelle Ehler. His early years were marked by a sense of adventure and a thirst for experience, which would serve him well in his future endeavors. After joining the U.S. Air Force, Duke met his future wife, Emily, and the two of them began building a life together. Duke’s time in the Air Force was cut short by the Korean War, but it was during this period that he found a sense of purpose and belonging. Upon his return, he was assigned to Fort Ethan Allen in Colchester, Vermont, where he would spend the rest of his life. Throughout his life, Duke was a man of many passions and pursuits. He was a businessman, an outdoorsman, and a patriot. He loved nothing more than to explore the great outdoors, whether it was camping, hiking, or simply spending time with his loved ones. One of Duke’s greatest passions was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, always putting the needs of those around him before his own. His family was his rock, and he would do anything to protect and provide for them. Duke’s love for his community was just as strong. He was a longtime member of the First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, where he served on the board and participated in various church activities. He was also a member of several other organizations, including the Family Motor Coach Association, Winnebago International Travelers Club, and Good Sam Club. Throughout his life, Duke demonstrated a commitment to public service and patriotism. He was a proud American, and he believed in the importance of giving back to his community. He served in the Vermont Air Guard Green Mountain Boys 158th FW for many years, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand. Duke’s love for travel and exploration was legendary. He and his wife, Emily, spent countless hours on the road, visiting new places and experiencing new things. They were members of the Winnebago International Travelers Club and the Good Sam Club, and they would often travel to campsites and RV parks throughout the country. Duke’s family was his greatest joy. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, always putting the needs of those around him before his own. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Emily, and he was always there to support and care for her. In his later years, Duke’s love for travel continued to grow. He and his family would often visit their camp in Georgia, Vermont, affectionately known as Ehlerville Lakeside. This special place held a lot of meaning for Duke and his family, and it was a place where they could always find peace and tranquility. Duke’s passing leaves a gaping hole in the lives of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the memories he created. Duke’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to those who supported him throughout his life. To the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mansfield Place and BAYADA Hospice, thank you for your care and compassion. To his friends and family, thank you for being there for him. And to the community, thank you for embracing him with open arms. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, with the Heavenly Food Pantry/Duke Ehler on the memo line. This will ensure that Duke’s legacy continues to live on, and it will provide support to those in need. A celebration of Duke’s life will be held at the First Congregational Church of Essex Junction on Saturday, May 10, 11 a.m. The family invites everyone to attend and share in the memories of a life well-lived. As we say goodbye to Duke, we take comfort in the knowledge that he is now at peace, guiding his family from the heavens. We will miss him dearly, but we will always remember the laughter, the tears, and the countless memories we shared with him.

Legacy of a Lifetime

* Duke Ehler was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. * He was a proud American and a committed patriot. * He served in the U.S. Air Force and was a member of the Vermont Air Guard Green Mountain Boys 158th FW. * He was a longtime member of the First Congregational Church of Essex Junction. * He loved to travel and explore the great outdoors. * He was a devoted family man and always put the needs of those around him before his own. * He demonstrated a commitment to public service and patriotism. * He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community. * He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Duke’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the memories of a life well-lived and the knowledge that Duke is now at peace, watching over them from above.

Remembering Duke Ehler

Duke Ehler was a man who touched the lives of countless people. His kindness, generosity, and love for others inspired a generation of families and individuals. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on through the memories we shared with him. We remember Duke’s infectious laugh, his kind heart, and his unwavering dedication to his family and community. We remember his love of travel, his passion for the outdoors, and his commitment to public service. Duke Ehler was a man of many talents and passions. Duke Ehler’s passing leaves a gaping hole in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

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