Duke Mallard: The Charming Mascot of Oak Lawn Park District

Visitors to Wolfe Wildlife Refuge in Oak Lawn often see a variety of ducks, but Duke Mallard is unique. Often called ‘The Duke’, he has become a beloved presence at local events like the Oak Lawn Park District’s Howl-O-Ween celebration. This character is the district’s mascot, animated by an employee, and engages visitors both young and old.

During the Howl-O-Ween event, attendees could enjoy numerous themed activities. There were stations featuring a ‘Guess the Vampire’ game, a Sesame Street corner with Ernie’s Rubber Duck Game, and a spooky setting with a witch. Characters from Paw Patrol and a pumpkin patch added to the fun. Duke Mallard mingled with the crowd, forming new friendships with enthusiastic visitors.

Jack Leiser, who attended the event with his wife Martha and their daughter Lucy, expressed his affection for Duke. ‘He’s adorable,’ he said. The family has ties to the park, as Jack proposed to Martha there, and now they reside in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood.

As Duke entertained the crowd, a young boy named Jordan, dressed as a werewolf, showed appreciation with a thumbs up. Duke’s journey as a mascot began in 2023 when the park sought a fresh representative. Genae Grabowski, who was then the Zamboni operator at the Oak Lawn Ice Arena, took on the challenge. As she evolved into a mixed media designer for the district, she reimagined the mascot as Duke Mallard.

Grabowski worked with her supervisor, Justin Waters, to create a charming story. ‘We wanted to keep Seemore Eagle, the original mascot, in the narrative as Duke’s adoptive father,’ she explained. This tale added depth to Duke’s character and connected him to Oak Lawn’s spirit.

Although Seemore Eagle is still recognized, Duke is the district’s lively ambassador at events. The Oak Lawn Park District website narrates Duke’s playful history, starting from his youth at Wolfe Wildlife.

“Duke’s love for Oak Lawn Park District started as a youngling as he grew up with his friends at Wolfe Wildlife and interacted with people that walked the trails,” according to Duke’s creators.

Genae Grabowski identifies with Duke, as his story mirrors her own experiences at the district. She has portrayed Duke at various events, including visiting park day camps and entertaining fans at a Chicago Sky WNBA game. She uniquely balanced skating in the mascot suit, which added another layer to Duke’s persona.

Duke’s presence is cherished by the district’s staff. Michael Sinkewich, Ice Arena and aquatics general manager, praised Duke’s ability to engage kids effectively. ‘We love Duke, he’s a good representative for the district,’ he said.

Brandi Brumfield, who oversees dance and theater programs, also admires Duke’s charm. ‘I love Duke. He brings so many smiles and is welcoming,’ she stated. Duke’s interactions, including dancing along with her, highlight his engaging nature.

The Oak Lawn Park District continues to benefit from Duke’s popularity, as he serves as a symbol of fun and community engagement.