Allen E. Dukes
Born on June 7, 1947 in Jacksonville, FloridaPassed on March 17, 2026 in Melbourne, Florida
It is with much sadness we announce the death on March 17, 2026, of Allen E. Dukes after a long battle with heart disease.
Loving husband of Becky Nielsen Dukes and adored father of James Allen Dukes (Kathy), Amy Freese (Jerry), Kelsey Nielsen Ritter (John), Carl Nielsen (Emily), Amanda Gibson (Lisa), Troy Gibson (Linda), and Randy Manuel (April). He leaves behind devoted grandchildren, Carson Freese, Camryn Freese, Kassidy Dukes, Jackson Dukes, Callan Ritter, Mack Ritter and Duke Nielsen.
He was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on June 7, 1947, to his late parents Elma Dobson Dukes and James Emory Dukes. He was predeceased by his brother Duane and survived by his sister-in-law Claire Dukes, nephew Bryce, his son James, niece Carrie George (Mel) and their children Wyatt and Raleigh George. Also, survived by niece Dana Nielsen and son Henrik.
After graduation in 1969 from Florida State University, Al began his career in Melbourne Florida with Radiation, Harris Corporation (now L3 Harris). He started as an analog, digital and systems design engineer. He developed a patent for weather instrumentation for Harris. He moved from engineering to program management positions with increasing responsibility to become VP General Manager of Government Communication, Integrated Information Systems and then President of Harris Microwave Communication in CA. He returned to Melbourne and retired in 2006 as President of Harris Civil Communication division. He was an excellent Senior Executive, effective with customers and well respected by his entire Harris team.
He loved boating and earned his Captain’s license. He was an avid deep-sea fisherman and also enjoyed golfing and tennis. He was a past member of the Florida State Leadership Team for the College of Fine Arts. He served on the board of the Eau Gallie Yacht Club for 9 years and was Commodore in 2020. He often made us laugh with his “Freddy” sayings!!
A Celebration of Life will be held from 5:00pm to 7 p.m, May 31,2026 at the Eau Gallie Yacht Club. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Health First Foundation, 1350 Hickory Street, Melbourne, Florida or VITAS Hospice, Rockledge, FL.
