Francis Joseph Charles "Duke" LeClair, 75

Former long-time El Paso, TX resident, Francis Joseph Charles "Duke" LeClair, 75, died June 7, 2009, surrounded by his devoted family, at his home in Alamogordo, NM.

Duke was born on September 11, 1933 in Belton, Texas to Francis Joseph Charles LeClair and Pearl Mangham LeClair. Duke and his loving wife, Kristin LeClair, spent over three decades together living the life of their dreams.

In his twenties, Duke served our country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Upon leaving the military, he spent most of his life employed in the transportation industry.

After his retirement from Southern Pacific Railroad, Duke and Kristin moved to Alamogordo, NM, where they enjoyed spending summers with their beloved grandchildren. His hobbies included working on his land and in his shop, as well as, making leather goods, while his wife quilted, sewed and crocheted.

Duke was a wonderful and generous husband, father and grandfather who was always ready to lend a helping-hand to family, friends and neighbors. He loved his animals dearly and took in several that did not have a home.

Duke LeClair is survived by his wife, Kristin LeClair; his children, James LeClair and wife Christy LeClair, Lisa LeClair Hoskins and husband Kenith Hoskins; his stepson, David Price and wife Linda Price; his grandchildren, Kenneth LeClair, Casey LeClair, Tanya De Luca and husband Chris De Luca, Ronald Hoskins, Sarah Hoskins, Andrew Price, Matthew Price, Jessica Price and Tristan Price; his great-granddaughter, Layla "Bugsy" De Luca; his sisters, Jeanne Bolte and husband Robert and Charlotte Kelso and numerous nieces and nephews.

Direct Cremation will take place under the care of PCS Direct Cremation Services.

Memorial donations may be made to Alamogordo Home Care/Hospice or the Humane Society of the United States.

Thank you to Alamogordo Hospice, Pastor Chuck Moon, Dr. Dan Moezzi and our friends who have shown amazing love and compassion through this difficult journey.

"Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much"