Karl Robert Duchek, Beloved
Husband, Father and Grandfather
Karl Robert Duchek of Westfield, NJ, died peacefully Thursday, February 20, 2025.
Born in Jersey City, NJ, on June 10, 1938 , to Anton and Alma Duchek. Karl spent his childhood growing up in North Plainfield, NJ, where he enjoyed playing football for the local high school. An excellent student, Karl first attended Yale University where he was the recipient of NROTC scholarship. Unfortunately, Karl was forced to withdraw from the University when an injury resulted in him losing his scholarship. Karl then went on to attend New York University, graduating in 1966 and receiving the Founders Scholar award. In 1970 Karl received his MBA from Harvard Business School where he received the George S. Baker Scholar.
Karl began his professional career working in Massachusetts at Miralin Corporation. He then went on to work for Booz Allen and spent many formative years creating his own company. In 1998, he joined Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP as their Chief Financial Officer and then as the Director of Client Administration & International Operations. Upon retirement from Skadden, Karl became the Director of Finance, Campus Foundations and Related Entities Special Advisor for Finance & Compliance for Purchase College in Purchase, NY.
In 1966, Karl married his wife Judith Pierce Duchek. They lived in Massachusetts and Illinois before moving permanently to Westfield, NJ, in 1976. Their son Konrad was born in 1974 and daughter Andrea was born in 1976 just after the family moved to Westfield. Always an avid participant in his children’s lives, Karl spent many years coaching their various sports teams. Most notably he coached his son Konrad’s club soccer team- the Hotspurs.
Karl is survived by his two children, their spouses (Jillian Moo-Young and Richard Nespola) and four grandchildren (Margaux, Calder and Mercer Nespola and Everett Duchek). He is also survived by nine nieces and nephews and their spouses and children.
Karl was an avid antiques and crafts collector who was always on the hunt to add to his train and ginger beer bottle collection. Karl also loved to travel and was fortunate enough to enjoy many amazing trips with his wife Judith. He was a thoughtful, introspective and caring mentor to many and will be missed greatly by his friends and family.
A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’sEpiscopalChurch,414EastBroad Street Westfield NJ 07090, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 11 a.m.
