James Wallace Duke, age 86, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on October 10, 2023. He was born on May 18, 1937 to Josephine and Thomas Duke and raised on a farm with his two brothers and a sister. The family made the move from Texas to California during his school years. In high school, James joined the California Cadet Core, and so began his love of the military. As soon as he graduated, he enlisted in the Navy. It was during this time he met the love of his life Constance Marie. After twoweeks they were wed. James retired from active duty after 20 years of service in September of 1975. After his military career ended, he found he still had a love for the uniform, so he joined the police department, first in Groton Connecticut, and then continuing on to Oxford, MI where the family ended up moving. He continued working with law enforcement throughout his years even during his time with General Motors Security, when he finally retired and moved to the Upper Peninsula in 1991.James did many things in his life, including the rodeo, and car racing with trophies he was beyond proud of. He made many friends along the way. But his biggest passion in his life ended up being snowmobiling. He started the Snomads Snofari Club in the early 80’s, was VP, and President of the Michigan Snowmobile Association, and then went on to the American Council of Snowmobile Associations where he also served as VP and president. He was always looking for ways to improve the sport and make it better and safer for generations to come. In September of 2013, James was inducted into the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame, an honor he always said humbled him beyond words to be recognized among the greats. He also loves writing articles for the Michigan Snowmobiler Magazine for many years and getting the truth out, and a few tall tales. He was active in the Alger County Sorva until he could no longer serve. To say he’s a legend in the snowmobile community would be an understatement.Another area dear to his heart was his Masonic family. James was a life member of the Oxford Lodge, even though he was unable to attend after moving. He and his wife were also members of the Orion Fellowship No#340 Order of Eastern Star where he served as Worthy Patron several times.In death, James joins his beloved wife of 51 years, Constance Marie, his son James Kevin, his parents, Josephine and Thomas, his brothers Jon and Chuck, and his sister Fran, as well as very close in-laws Leo and Ida Mae Misenar, brother-in-laws Conrad and Craig Misenar, and sisters-in-law, Rosemary and Marietta Misenar. He will be desperately missed by his daughters Judith (John) Lloyd of Manistque, MI, and Karyn (Tim) Robare of Munising, MI, and Kim of CA. Grandchildren, Erica (Darnell) Laidler, Alysha (Mike) Murdock, Emily (Kiel) Duke, Jeffery Gibbs, Jesse Lloyd, Flora (Rhys) Yarborough, Ashley Weed, Tomasa Salcido, Angel Rivera, and 18 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind brothers-in-law Wayne (Margaret) Misenar of Jacksonville, FL, and Cary Misenar or Clarkston, MI, and a sisters-in-law, Cathy Misenar of Redlands FL, and Carol Duke of CA, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.Visitation will take place at Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors, 39 W. Burdick in Oxford on Sunday, October 15, 2023 from 2-7 p.m. The funeral service will take place at the funeral home on Monday, October 16, 2023 at 11 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Interment with military honors will follow at Oxford Township Cemetery with a luncheon to follow. Memorials may be made to the American Council of Snowmobile Associations Legacy Fund.