Belvidere, IllinoisDuke R. Ernst, of Belvidere, IL loving husband, father, and grandfather, died January 13, 2008 at home after a lengthy illness. Born March 16, 1943 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Milton F. and Ruth A. Schultz Ernst Melchert. Duke was raised by his Mother and Stepfather, Irvin Melchert.Confirmed at Immanuel Congregational Church in Dubuque, graduated from Senior high School class of 1961. Served in the US Army from 1961 to 1967. He served with HQ, USARV from 1965 to 1976. Along with other awards, Duke received the Bronze Star. He was employed at Chrysler, Belvidere Assembly Plant, member of U.A.W. Local 1268 from 1967 to 2001. Duke was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ where he was involved in many activities. He was also a member of the Boone County Gardeners of America receiving the Bronze award in 2003, the Belvidere Moose Lodge, Cub Scout leader and an avid bowler.Duke married Ruth Ann Bollinger in Genoa on July 29, 1972. Survivors include his wife, Ruth Ann; daughter, Jessica (Kevin) Ferdon of Belvidere; son, Jeffrey Ernst and special friend Nicki Zbrzeski of Sycamore; grandchildren, Maddie Ernst, Tyler and Trevor Ferdon all of Belvidere; brother Milt (Linda) Ernst; sister Karen (James) Kieffer of Dubuque, IA; brother, Frank (Sandi) Ernst of Asbury, IA; half brother and sister, Donald (Lori) Ernst and Pam Ernst of Dubuque, IA.Predeceased by his mother in 2003, his stepfather, Irvin K. Melchert in 1971, father, in 1981 and infant son Robert (Bobby) D. February 4, 1975.

Memorials may be given in care of St. John's Church of Christ in his memory.