Summary

Sandra Sue Dukes, 83, of Lafayette, IN, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2024 with her nephews by her side.

Sandra was born in Indianapolis, IN, in 1941 to Harold and Dorothy Dukes. The family lived in Crawfordsville, IN, and later moved to the family farm in Colfax, IN. After graduating from Thorntown High School in Thorntown, IN, Sandra went on to receive her Bachelor of Science and Master’s degrees from Purdue University, where she also enjoyed playing field hockey and golf, and became a huge Purdue sports fan.

She worked as a History teacher in Waukegan, IL for five years before returning to pursue her law degree from Indiana University. After working for the Indiana General Assembly and for Butler University, she returned to Lafayette and opened her own law practice more than 30 years ago, also working as a Public Defender in Tippecanoe County, where she practiced right up until her unexpected death.

Sandra also served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Purdue University Vet School teaching a class in Ethics and Jurisprudence for the past 20 years and served as a lecturer in Constitutional Law in the Purdue History Dept.

Her beloved dogs were her greatest joy. Sandra was an active member of the Samoyed Club of America. She raised several “Sammies” over the years, which she trained and showed, receiving many awards from Samoyed Club of America, National Specialities, and Canadian National Specialties.

Photography was another passion of hers. She was hired to photograph Purdue football and basketball games, as well as women’s volleyball. She also photographed many dog show events including Westminster Kennel Club. Her photos appeared world wide.

She was respected by many through her volunteer work in community activities and churches.

Sandra is survived by her sister, Diane (Peter) Wohld, nephews Mark (Sue) Wohld and Adam (Susan) Wohld, and her great nephews Jake Wohld and Jeremy Wohld. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Dorothy Dukes.

A memorial service will be held at Riverside Covenant Church, 1850 Woodland Ave. West Lafayette, IN on Sunday November 17, 2024 at 2:00 PM

I lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Samoyed Club of America.

Arrangements entrusted to Simple Cremation Indianapolis. 6904 South East Street, Suite E, Indianapolis, IN 46227. (317) 361-4749. www.simplecremationindianapolis.com