Duke Doumanian

Duke Doumanian, age 69, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, with his family by his side.

A proud lifelong resident of Joliet, Duke had a special way of turning everyday moments into meaningful connections. Known for his tireless work ethic, easy smile, and genuine love for people, he had a knack for making everyone feel right at home. He began his career in the men’s clothing business, where he didn’t just help his customers dress well, he made sure they walked out feeling like their very best selves.

At 40, proving it’s never too late to follow your heart, he traded men's suits for dirt paths and launched his own landscaping business, Duke’s Landscaping Services. What started as a simple love of yard work blossomed into a fulfilling career, where his creativity and care could be seen in every front yard, freshly cut lawn, and smiling neighbor. He transformed ordinary spaces into places of beauty, leaving a lasting mark on both the landscapes he shaped and the community he cherished.

Duke is preceded in death by his parents, Ozzie and Florence Doumanian; uncles, John Doumanian and Chuck Frankian; and aunts, Gloria (Stu) Nigohoshian and Julia (Herald) Simonian.

Duke was the loving father of Janell (Barrett) Mays, Jaclyn (George) Shimko and Ozzie Doumanian; adoring grandfather of Duke, Madeline, Savannah and George; proud brother to Lisa (Ed) Schlesinger and Karen (Ken) Tarazoff; dear nephew to Annette Frankian; an admired cousin to many and caring uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Duke’s life will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Word of remembrance will be shared in the funeral home chapel at 7:00 p.m. Per Duke’s wishes cremation rites will be accorded following services.