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Robert Lee Durkee, Jr., of Greenwood, DE, passed away peacefully at Lofland Rehabilitation Center, Seaford. Robert was born in Wilmington, DE the son of the late Robert Lee Durkee, Sr. and Helen (German) Durkee. After graduation from high school, he enlisted into the U.S. Air Force, serving for 4 years. Once out of the Air Force, he went to work as a New Castle County Police officer for 10 years. In 1981, Robert decided to join the U.S. Army and was assigned to the Army National Guard, serving there until 1998.
After retiring from the Army, Robert went to work for the State of Delaware Probation and Parole as a Probation Officer, working from 1998 until his retirement in 2010.
In his spare time, Robert enjoyed sailing and boating on the Chesapeake Bay as well as spending time vacationing in such places as Saint Croix and the Florida Keys. He also enjoyed raising his beloved dogs. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter Jennifer Durkee.
He is survived by his wife, Janet Lee (Williams) Durkee; his son Robert Durkee (Ali) and his daughter Eva Sorenson (Kirk); a brother James Durkee and a sister Mary Marshall.
A visitation will be held from 11 am to 12 pm on Monday, August 10, 2026 at the Lofland Funeral Home, 102 Lakeview Avenue, Milford. Committal services with military honors will be held at 1 pm in the Chapel of the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Patriots Way, Millsboro. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to either Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963 or to the Brandywine Valley S.P.C.A., 22918 Dupont Boulevard, Georgetown, DE 19947. Letters of condolence may be shared with the family at www.loflandandmcknatt.com.
