Preston Duke

View the memorial service live stream: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell-Family-Funeral-Home-99280714047/ Preston Lawrence Duke, 58, of Marshalltown, Iowa, formerly of Bethel, Washington, has returned to the loving arms of his Father after his unexpected passing on Saturday, February 6, 2021 at UnityPoint Health – Marshalltown. Cremation rites have been accorded and a memorial service for Preston will take place on Wednesday, February 10 at 3:00 P.M. at Mitchell Family Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation. For additional questions or condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or phone 641-844-1234. Born October 23, 1962 at the Madigan Hospital in Tacoma, Washington, he was the son of Uley “Andy” and Bobbie (Jenkins) Duke. Preston graduated in 1981 from Bethel High School in Bethel, Washington (“home of the Braves!”). Following his graduation, Preston honorably served his country for over twenty years, first in the United States Marine Corps and then as a civil engineer in the United States Air Force. He traveled all over the world during his time of service. After retiring from the military, he went on to attend Minot State University in North Dakota, where he double-majored and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in both History and Sociology. Preston’s career choices were a direct reflection his deep passion for people and his overwhelming kindness. While living in North Dakota, he worked for Job Service North Dakota, helping underprivileged kids find sustainable jobs. Later while living in Washington, he worked with the autistic community. Preston also was an ordained pastor and had the privilege of officiating for his great-niece’s wedding several years ago. Preston served as a long-time member of the Honor Guard and the DAV. He was very skilled with his hands, excelling in woodworking and painting, as well as home remodeling. Preston was extremely smart and loved doing research, reading and anything to do with history. He had a very big, inclusive heart and would help anybody that came along his path. Preston especially enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and his two fur-babies. Left to cherish his memory is the love of his life, Marlene Rush; his sister, Jackie (Phil) Arps; step-brother, Robert Patterson; niece Cindy (Dave) Choate; nephew, Rob Arps; several other relatives and his beloved Chihuahuas, Shorty and Wylie. Preston is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dan Duke.