Duke passed away peacefully at the age of 43 in Missoula, Mont. from complications of paralysis. Duke was born to John and Sheila Bird, he was raised in Denair, where he had many friends. He loved hot rods and bikes. Duke is survived by his father, John Bird; the mother of his children, EJ Merritt; daughters, Teaira VanFleet and RayeAnne Bird; son, Johnny Bird; brother, Jim Bird and his wife, Serena; brother, Stoney Bird and his wife, Jen; and nieces and nephews, Sheila, Jimmy, Kayla, Alyssa and AJ Bird.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Sheila Raye Bird.
Special thanks to his friend, Frannie Roberts of Missoula. There will be a private memorial. He will be greatly missed by all.
MY BIRD DIED TODAY
HE WENT AWAY A LONG TIME AGO
BROKEN WINGS
HE’S FREE NOW
HE FLEW AWAY TODAY
HAPPY, HEALED, FREE