Elmer J. “Duke” Robinson, Jr., 77, of New Britain, CT passed away peacefully Monday, January 1, 2018 at home. Duke was born on August 28, 1940 and was the son of the late Elmer J. Robinson Sr. and Mary (Dortche) Robinson. He graduated from New Britain High School and attended Central CT State University as an aspiring track star and for many years Duke enjoyed working as a Tool and Die Maker and retired from General Electric Co., Wiremold and Miss Porter’s School. Duke enjoyed traveling and being a part of the men’s ministry at his church.

Duke was a devoted father and grandfather and is survived by his son, Derek Robinson (Karmon), his daughter, DoriLee Robinson-Knighton (Eric), his five grandchildren, D’Angela, Demetri, Cyrus, Justus and Kamden, his two sisters, Arlene Allen, Jeanette Paredes, his brother Peter Gonsalves, his dear Aunt Florence Alvarez of New Haven and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Duke was predeceased by his three sisters Beverly, Carol and Marcia.

Homecoming Celebration for Duke will be held Monday, January 8, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Cross Street A.M.E. Zion Church, 440 West St., Middletown, CT where he was a faithful member with the Rev. Moses L. Harvill, Pastor, presiding. Committal service and final resting place will be in Fairview Cemetery, 120 Smalley St., New Britain, CT. Relatives and friends may call at Cross Street A.M.E. Zion Church Monday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Professional Service of Comfort provided by the Paul A. Shaker Funeral Home, 764 Farmington Ave., New Britain, CT. To extend condolences to the Robinson family or to share a memory of Duke, please visit shakerfuneralhome.com.