Saratoga Springs - Retired Saratoga County Commissioner of Social Services, Robert "Duke" Christopher passed away at his home at the age of 68 on August 14, 2015, after a long illness. A humanitarian by nature, he was always willing to help anyone in need. When someone had a problem they could count on Duke for good advice and discretion. A man who loved to hear other people tell their stories, he was a "listener." He was deeply committed to his post as Commissioner of Social Services and continually sought ways to better serve and help the people of our community. He was a graduate of the University at Albany having worked full-time while attending. A true Saratogian, Duke loved horse racing, the energy of the racing season and the history of the city. He and his wife traveled all over the world where he always sought out a race track. In his opinion, none ever met the standard of "Saratoga." Duke was a competitive cyclist and speed skater having accumulated many trophies's and medals in both sports. He was gifted in connecting with people through his gentle nature, warm smile and sense of humor. Most of all, he cherished his wife, children and grandchildren. He was the one to swim with the kids when it was freezing out, get buried in the sand at the beach or just play catch. By carrying out traditions such as delivering bagels to his children and grandchildren on Sunday mornings or helping his wife entertain for family and friends, he maintained close relationships with the people that mattered most to him. In today's busy world, he also led by example with his appreciation of the little things in life that are so easily overlooked including the sound of rain on a tin roof, bird watching and the peacefulness of shoveling snow. The son of the late Richard and Catherine Christopher, he is survived by his wife of 46 years, Eileen Bishop Christopher and his children Dr. Erin Christopher-Sisk (James) and Ryan Christopher (Helen) and his grandchildren, Calleigh Sisk and Lexton Christopher. He is also survived by a sister, Helen Christopher, several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and numerous cousins. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Duke at St. Mary's Church (167 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa) on Wednesday, August 19, 2015, at 1pm. There will be no calling hours. Burial will follow at St. Peter's Cemetery, West Ave.,Saratoga Springs. In lieu of flowers and in memory of Duke, contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Saratoga and Washington Counties, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (584-5373). Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.