Duker (Duke) Lyter
Duker (Duke) Lyter, age 93, died peacefully at home on Thursday, March 28, 2019. Born on November 23, 1925, Duke grew up in Quincy, the son of Errett McFarland Lyter and Marie Esther Lyter. On September 20, 1950 he married Carol Ann Ginster. The couple spent the next 69 years running the farm and raising their family.
Duke farmed in the Indian Grave Drainage District and was a devoted Levee Commissioner for 33 years.
His lifelong passion for farming and love of animals began as a young boy when he worked with his father on the family farm and was a member of FFA and 4-H. He graduated from Quincy Senior High School in 1943.
He was charismatic, a wonderful storyteller, told a good joke, and was happiest when surrounded by his family. Duke had a strong work ethic, was determined and meticulous but also knew how to enjoy his evenings relaxing at home, eating popcorn with his wife Carol and watching Big Joe’s Polka Show, his Beagles at his feet.
Duke was an avid reader and had much interest in local history and family genealogy. One of his favorite pastimes was taking a leisurely Sunday drive exploring the countryside. He enjoyed this activity the most when he could bring along as many family members as possible, culminating the day by finding an obscure but usually delicious small local eatery. He was a frequent visitor to local threshing bees and weekend flea markets.
Duke led a blessed life in that he was able to spend his years pursuing his love of the land. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church.
He is survived by his wife Carol, daughters Lynda Kerr (Robert) of McDonough GA, Karen Brumbaugh (Kurt) of Tryon NC, son Luke Lyter of Quincy IL, daughters Sara Lyter (Jim Sherbahn) and Teresa Lyter (Andrew Walters), both of Columbus NC, grandchildren Andrew Kerr (Elizabeth) of Santa Clara CA, Caitlyn DeLeva (Michael) of Atlanta GA, Max Brumbaugh (Allie) of Vancouver WA, Austin Brumbaugh (Stephanie) of Durham NC, Veronica Brooks (John) of Hillsdale MI, Daniel Lyter of Harvard IL, three great-grandchildren on the way, and his beloved Beagles, Becky and Tracy.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Kathleen Lyter, and son, Mark Allen Lyter.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at 12:00 noon in the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home conducted by Msgr. Michael Kuse. Interment in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday morning from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.
Memorials may be made to Blessed Sacrament Church and Quincy Humane Society.
Carol and Family, I Always enjoyed going over to the Lyter House! Duke was always Fun, accommodating and made you feel like Family! Glad to have known Such a Sweet Man!
Karen, Kurt and Family – I am sorry for your loss – I wish you peace
The world has just lost a fine human being, beloved by all who had the honor of knowing and working with him. He was a man of his word, a diligent worker totally dedicated to his family and his love of the land. His quick wit and ready smile would brighten anyone’s day, and he lived life as an optimist with faith in the future. We send our deepest sympathy to Carol and the rest of his beloved family for the loss of an amazing man.
Tony and I are so sorry for your loss! Our thoughts are with you and we are sending you well wishes.
Carol , There aren’t words for the loss we felt hearing of Duke’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Duke will truly be missed by us all.