Dale B. Dukes, age 87 of Big Rapids, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2009 at Mecosta County Medical Center. He was born October 15, 1921 in Freeport, MI the son of William and Mary (Kidder) Dukes. Dale graduated from Freeport High School in 1939. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army serving during World War II in the Philippines. Dale married Monell E. Butler on June 19, 1943. Together they made their home in Freeport, MI until moving to Big Rapids in 1970. Dale established Dale Duke and Sons Incorporated; a highway construction company operating throughout the state of Michigan. Dale was a member of the Rogers Heights Christian Church. He is survived by his wife Monell to whom he was married a remarkable 65 years, Five sons; Martin (Sue) Dukes of Pentwater, Randy (Diane) Dukes of Big Rapids, Steven (Mary) Dukes of Stanwood, Perry (Patty) Dukes of Big Rapids, Rex (Tina) Dukes of Stanwood, 12 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and dear friends; John and Joyce Hilligoss of Big Rapids. Besides his parents, Dale was preceded in death by a brother, Floyd "Bud" Dukes and 4 sisters, Effie Priebe, Goldie Rounsville, Bernice Kyser and Dorothy MacDonald. A memorial service will take place 1:00 p.m. Thursday, January 15th at the Rogers Heights Christian Church with Mike Steere officiating. Memorial contributions in Dale's name may be made to the American Heart Association. Cremains will be interred at the Ladner Cemetery in Rogers Heights this spring.