Norman Vatchel Younger Jr. (known to many as Duke) was born on April 8, 1931 in Kingwood, West Virginia to Norman Vatchel Younger Sr. and Virginia (Eva May Randall) Younger. After attending high school, Norman enlisted in the Military division of the U.S. Army in January 1952.
After completing his tour of duty in 1957 as a Sergeant and Army Golden Gloves boxing champion, Norman relocated to Boston, Massachusetts.
Now known by his boxing name “Duke”, he was gainfully employed with companies such as B.F. Goodrich, Raytheon, and Century Chemical until his retirement.
Norman was an avid bowler and sports enthusiast, as well as actively participating in and enjoying a host of other activities. It was through his love of dancing and music that he met and married the late Ellen Louise Murphy.
Duke and Ellen loved adventure but soon settled down to start their family. They raised three wonderful children, Denise, Vatchel and Derek. As a family they traveled extensively, touring the country and visiting relatives all along the east coast from Maine to Florida.
As a sports fan Duke enjoyed many hobbies, his favorite being softball. He took pride in playing for the Hillbillies Softball Team as well as coaching the Blue Jays Women Softball Team, where he earned several awards, including the Boston Mayor's Cup, which his team received many times. He was also a co-founder of the Spoilers Social Club, and participated in numerous bowling leagues in Boston.
Later in life as a military veteran, Duke became an advocate for aging Veterans and helped manage their healthcare through the VA hospitals. As President of Holgate Tenants Association, he also assisted senior citizens with housing in Boston senior living facilities.
Norman leaves behind two sisters; Marjorie Jones and Gertrude McLaurin, his three cherished children Denise, Vatchel and Derek and late son Norman, godchildren Atiya, Kai and Ellys, Grandchildren T.J., Vatchel II, Qjaquice, Briha, and five Great-grandchildren and a host of beloved nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends.
