Duane Croxdale, 80, a long-time resident of Tulsa, passed away Sunday, after a brief battle with brain cancer.  Duane was born January 17, 1938, in Salem, Oregon, to Harold and Doris Croxdale.  He had two sisters, Donna and Darlene, that also preceded him in death.  Duane and Shirley were married July 27, 1974, in Las Vegas, at which time they blended their two families.

In Duane's earlier profession he was in the aerospace industry for 37 years before retiring from that field.  Shortly thereafter, Duane and Shirley purchased the Spudder Restaurant which they owned for 26 years.  During part of those years, Duane managed the Spudder until they sold it in 2011.  Over the years while at the Spudder numerous relationships were established, nurtured and honored.  During this time, Duane was instrumental and an integral part in raising their granddaughter Caitlin Calkins, in her endeavor to pursue a tennis career.  They traveled thousands of miles over the years to take her to tournaments and to watch her compete.  Their efforts were rewarded by Caitlin accepting a full scholarship to play tennis for Purdue University.

Duane is survived by his wife of 44 years, Shirley, three sons Jeff, Randy and Brock, two daughters Cindy and Karyn, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  As a family, they enjoyed water skiing and camping on the Colorado River in California.  Duane and Shirley enjoyed many years of deep sea fishing in Cabo San Lucas.

A graveside service will be held Monday, April 23, 2018, at 2:30 PM at Calvary Cemetery, located at 9101 S. Harvard Ave., Tulsa.  There will be a viewing with the family Sunday, April 22, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 3612 E. 91st St. S., Tulsa.  You can pay your respects earlier beginning Friday, April 20th.

Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 918-291-3500