Mrs. Eileen Greta Duke (nee Inkinen), age 82 years, passed away peacefully with her loving husband at her side on February 20th, 2026, at Hogarth Riverview Manor.
Eileen, or “Aiti” as her grandchildren called her, grew up in Lappe and spent 79 years of her life there as a proud member of the community. For over 40 years, she served as the secretary of Gorham and Ware School, witnessing generations of children learn and grow. She loved cross country skiing, bird watching, gardening and horses; however, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family. Weekends, summer vacations and March breaks were filled with moments shared with her grandchildren at their family home. Whether they were swimming in the pool, relaxing in the sauna, chasing butterflies in the fields or enjoying late-night snacks together, Mom truly cherished those times with them. She hosted countless family dinners where she would prepare favorites like hashbrown casserole, turnip casserole and her famous turkey gravy. Evenings and weekends were often spent unwinding on the deck or by the fireplace surrounded by loved ones.
After retirement, Mom and Dad discovered their love for travel. They adored visiting places like Barbados and St Lucia. They also enjoyed camping in their travel trailer down in Grand Marais (sometimes bringing along at least one grandchild). Their most recent adventures included trips to China and a cruise to Alaska to see whales-something that had been a lifelong dream for Mom.
She is fondly remembered by her husband of 63 years, Ernie; daughter Laurel Loda (Aaron); grandchildren Amanda Stewart-Bosley (Bryan Bosley), Hallie Nolin (Tyler Collander), Allair Nolin (Kylie Swan), Maddie Loda; and seven great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents and daughter Dawn Stewart Nolin.
The family wants to express our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Hogarth Riverview Manor, Birch Grove for the wonderful care Mom received and for showing compassion to our family during this challenging time.
Cremation has taken place. A small gathering will be held in the spring for family members to celebrate her life and honor the incredible person she was.
