Robert Lee Durkee Jr. passed away peacefully t the Lofland Rehabilitation Center in Seaford on July 27, 2026. He was 83.
Born in Wilmington, Robert was the son of Robert Lee Durkee Sr. and Helen German Durkee. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving for four years. Upon leaving the Air Force, Robert went to work for the New Castle County Police for 10 years. In 1981, Robert decided to join the United States 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 as a probation officer, working there from 1998 until he retired 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.
Robert is survived by his wife, Janet Lee Williams Durkee; his son, Richard Durkee (Ali) and his daughter, Eva Sorenson (Kirk); a brother, James Durkee and a sister, Mary Marshall.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Jennifer Durkee.
A visitation will be held Monday, August 10 at the Lofland Funeral Home, 102 Lakeview Avenue from 11 AM to Noon. Committal services with military honors will be held at 1 PM in the Chapel of the Delaware Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, Patriots Way, Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford DE 19963 or the Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 Dupont Boulevard, Georgetown DE 19947.
