Eugene "Geno" Hendrix Duke III
February 19, 1952 ~ October 12, 2017 (age 65) 65 Years OldShare Tribute:
As a kid growing up, Geno was a very energetic young man who had a great zest for life. He had a big heart and was always trying to give his possessions to others if he even thought they liked a particular thing. He always had a love throughout his life for animals and the outdoors. He had many pets as he grew up, including flying squirrels. Geno always had a lot of natural physical strength, from the time he was very young and liked to show it off a bit. Geno was a defender of those that could not defend themselves and got into several fights in grade school defending smaller kids from bullies. He was also a very clean and neat person, both in personal hygiene and all his possessions. Geno and I spent many of our summer days in the mid 1960’s at the “Variety Boys Club” on Airline at North Main. He also loved spending time at our Grandparents home on Pecore St. in the Heights. Throughout his working life, Geno was always a very hard working man and performed whatever job that was given to him, with pride and an eye for detail.
Later in life, Geno developed some slight mental health issues, but remained a functioning and kind hearted person. After his death, our Uncle Wayne and I went to collect some of his personal belongings from his apartment. I was very happy to learn that he did have a strong relationship with God and attended St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church near his home. We found numerous Crucifixes and Bibles, along with notes he had written to God, asking forgiveness for his sins ant to please accept him into Heaven when he died. I have no doubt that God granted his wish. I will always have fond memories of my childhood with my cousin Geno. He was a sweet and caring kid with an infectious enthusiasm for life.