Elias Drotar

Elias “Duke” Donnie Drotar

Elias “Duke” Drotar died peacefully at his home in Twin Falls, Idaho on February 6, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Petra, all-around buddy and canine friend, Tinkerbell, and children Cher Coulter, Don Rolfe, Kathryn Walker, Kirk Drotar, Rev. Kent Drotar and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His son, David Drotar, predeceased him in August 2015 at age 59.

Duke was born July 30, 1928 in Kutch, Colorado of parents Fabian and Anna Drotar who emigrated from Rudnik, Slovakia in the early 1900’s. Duke was predeceased by his parents and eight siblings: John, Jack, Frances, Ann, Tony, Steve, George and Mary. A graduate of Simla High School, Duke called Colorado home until 1994 when he and Petra moved to Twin Falls, Idaho.

One of the most important facets of Duke’s life was being a nearly 50-year member of the B.P.O.E. (Elks). The highlight of his time with the Elks was when he was the Exalted Ruler of Denver’s Mother Lodge #17 in 1985-1986, a year when the lodge experienced great growth and energy.

Duke always loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman—having put fear into fish from Colorado to Idaho to even the Columbia River Bar in Oregon. He and Petra loved camping as well and put many miles on their travel trailers and boats over their 45+ years of marriage.

He made a living much of his life as a professional truck driver—having accumulated over 2 million miles of accident-free driving in his life. A top-notch auto mechanic and all-around handyman, Duke rebuilt or repaired innumerable cars for family members and friends.

He will be remembered for his kindness and generosity towards neighbors and friends—always willing to lend a helping hand.

A celebration of life service will be held at the Snake River Elks Lodge #2807, 412 East 200 South, Jerome, ID 83338 on Saturday February 13, 2016 at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or Laradon Hall, 5100 Lincoln Street, Denver, CO 80216. Laradon Hall is a favorite charity of the B.P.O.E. www.laradon.org