Steven Craig Duke, 58, passed away after a hard-fought fight against illness on August 28, 2026.

He was born on July 23, 1968, in San Bernardino, California, to Steven L. Duke and Crystal Whitney Duke. As a young child, Steve and his family moved to the Kansas City area, a place he would proudly call home for the rest of his life.

Steve graduated from Winnetonka High School, where he excelled in athletics, particularly in track, making Missouri State Champion in the High Jump event his Senior Year and continuing to hold the school’s high jump record to this day. In his youth, he also enjoyed playing baseball, a pasttime that continued into adulthood, playing men’s fast pitch softball.

After high school, Steve briefly attended the University of Missouri and became a forever a fan of MU sports. A true jack of all trades, he explored many different paths throughout his life. He worked alongside his father in the police department before continuing his education at Baylor University, where he completed their nursing program. He went on to work as a registered nurse for many years. Following his nursing career, Steve continued working in the familiar hospital setting as part of the security team.

Steve was a man of many interests and talents. He could fix just about anything and was incredibly intelligent. He kept his mind sharp by playing chess, learning about history and reading books of all topics, with Stephen King being among his favorite authors.

A lifelong dog lover, Steve adored his dogs, Gus and Maggie, who brought him tremendous joy. He loved spending time with family, enjoying beautiful weather, and making memories in St. Augustine, Florida. He was a devoted Missouri sports fan, passionately cheering for Mizzou, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Kansas City Royals.

Above all, Steve will be remembered for his personality. He was social, outgoing, and had a gift for making people laugh and smile.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Steven L. Duke; his grandparents; two uncles; one aunt; and his stepfather, Jim Painter.

He will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Crystal Painter; his children, Taylor Duke, Zachary Duke, and Ryan Duke; grandchildren, Kayden and Kyan; significant other, Stacee Newsom; siblings, Andrea (Paul) Khan, Lindsay Painter, and Greg Painter; nephews, Greyson, Jacob, and Joshua; stepmother, Johnnie Duke; and many extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Terrace Park Cemetery - Lakeside Chapel, on Thursday, September 10, 2026. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 6:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to KC Pet Project in Steve’s memory.