Robert Lucas

Luke was born on October 16, 1939 in Dunkirk at Brooks Memorial Hospital. He was the son of the late Joseph and Vernice Lucas.

Luke graduated from Cardinal Mindszenty High School in Dunkirk, Class of 1957. He was employed several years at A&P Markets as a produce manager before being employed at Ralston Purina in Dunkirk. Later in life, he was employed as the full-time head steward at the First Ward Falcon Club until his retirement in 2003. Throughout his life, Luke could be found bartending at Lucky Lanes Bowling Alley in Fredonia, where he met the love of his life, Margaret Yonker. On August 28, 1965, he married Margaret.

Besides his loving wife of 52 years, Luke is survived by a son, Michael R. Lucas of Fredonia; a daughter, Kathleen (David) Price of Fredonia; and two granddaughters whom which he adored, Brianna and Allison Price. Also surviving is a brother-in-law, Robert Yonker; and a niece, Wendy Tolbert.

Luke was a life member of the First Ward Falcon Club and the Moniuszko Social Club, where he could be found daily with his many close friends. He also was an avid bowler at Lucky Lanes and spent many hours with his close family friend, Lou Nocek. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing the game of war and cribbage with his granddaughters. He was a parishioner of St. Joseph Church along with his family.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his older brother, Richard (Winifred) Lucas; in-laws, Carl and Helen Yonker; and brother-in-law, Gerald Yonker.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated Tuesday, January 23 at 10:00 AM in St. Joseph Church, 145 East Main St., Fredonia (please use side entrance). Calling hours will be held Monday, January 22 from 3:00-7:00 PM at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Church, 145 East Main Street, Fredonia, NY 14063.

Obituary from the Observer