Ralph 'Duke' Lee Allen

Ralph "Duke" Lee Allen, 74, passed away Monday, October 11, 2021, at Hot Springs Health in Thermopolis.

Born March 21, 1947 in Lander, Wyo., he was one of four children of Marvin and Dorothy (Shroyer) Allen. Raised on the Pitchfork Ranch near Meeteese, Wyo., the family later moved to Cheyenne where Duke graduated from high school. He served in the U.S. Army.

Following his discharge he moved to Thermopolis where he was employed as Hot Springs County Deputy Sheriff, then as patrol officer for the City of Thermopolis.  After serving in law enforcement for 20 years he was employed by McGarvin-Moberly Construction driving truck.

Duke was a member of Malta Lodge #17 AF&AM and was a Shriner. The past few years he enjoyed volunteering as Camp Host at the Upper Wind River Campground.

He is survived by his brother, Bill (Vicky) Allen of North Carolina; daughter, Rebecca (James) Coker of Lott, Texas; granddaughter, Jaelyn Coker; brother-in-law, Jon VanAlstine of Jeffrey City, Wyo., and Wisconsin; companion, Lea Cable; and extended family. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Mike; and sister, Betty VanAlstine.

A Celebration of Life will be held next spring, 2022.Mortimore Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Messages may be offered at http://www.mortfh.com.