Walter Edward Luecke's Obituary
Big Rapids - Walter E. Luecke, 85, of Big Rapids, passed away Thursday, March 22, 2018 at Altercare of Big Rapids.
He was born July 21, 1932 in Bad Axe, the son of Herbert and Helen (Keys) Luecke and graduated from Kinde High School in 1950. Walt then earned his BS in Hospitality Management from Michigan State University in 1954. For two years, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Chicago.
On May 17, 1958, Walter married Patricia Johns in Oak Park, IL. He worked in food service for General Mills, Saga Food Service, and the General Motors Institute. In 1977, Walt and his family moved to Big Rapids, where he served as Director of Food Services at Ferris State (College) University, retiring in January 1992.
Walter was a long-time active member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, and he held offices on the Stewardship Board, Church Council, and the Endowment Fund Committee. He was also involved with NACUFS, West Michigan Lily Club, Eagle Scouts, Michigan and National Audubon Society, and the National Wildlife Nature Conservancy. Walt was an avid lily grower and bird watcher, and enjoyed bowling and golf.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years Pat; three children, Deborah (Doug) Christian of Monroeville, Indiana, Steven (Victoria) Luecke of Bakersfield, California, and Shari Hinkle of Safety Harbor, Florida; nine grandchildren, Ryan and Logan Hinkle, Joshua (Alisha) Christian, Elizabeth (Coty) Stark, Jacob and Matthew Christian, Megan (Michael) Anderson, Blake and Garrett Luecke; three great grandchildren, Niklas Anderson, Hunter Stark, and Levi Christian; one sister Barbara, and one brother Robert. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters, Carolyn and Helen.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, with Rev. Jonathan Williams officiating. Burial will follow in the Highland View Cemetery. Walter's family will greet friends on Monday, March 26, from 4-7 p.m. at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, and at the church after 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Spectrum Health Hospice, or the American Heart Association, with envelopes available at the funeral home.
What’s your fondest memory of Walter?
What’s a lesson you learned from Walter?
Share a story where Walter's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Walter you’ll never forget.
How did Walter make you smile?