Gary T. Lukowicz

Gary Lukowicz, age 74 of Hastings, died peacefully at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis following a two year battle with lung cancer. Gary Thomas, the son of Willis and Phyllis (Peloquin) Lukowicz, was born on December 12, 1945. Following his education, Gary began his life-long career as a Tool & Die Machinist, first with Schlitz Brewing Company, then American National Can, and eventually retired in 2008 from Rexam, all while being in good standing for over forty years with the Steel Workers Union. Gary married Roberta Schultz and was blessed with two children, Byron and Muriah, prior to being later divorced. On July 24, 1994, he married Elayne Schlichting, and was blessed with adding Elayne's two daughters, Meri and Jenni, to their family. Gary was an avid car buyer, restorer, and collector of all makes of cars, but especially loved Jaguars. Over the years, he's owned sixty-three different classics, all while enjoying the ride along the way. Gary was an avid bicyclist and had many successful trips including BRAT (Bike Ride Across Tennessee) in 1989. He also enjoyed camping, attending car shows, and was an avid Packer and Nascar fan. Most of all, Gary loved being a dad and grandpa and enjoyed spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Muriah Lukowicz; and sister-in-law, Elizabeth Nelson. Gary is survived by his loving wife, Elayne; children, Byron Lukowicz, Meri (Nick) Poppler, and Jenni (Scott) Hatcher; granddaughters, Ivy and Willa Lukowicz and Hailey Hatcher; brothers, Lee (Claire) Walker and Greg (Andrea Weidler) Walker; sister, Phyllis (Larry) Wojiechowski; brothers-in-law, George Nelson and David Schlichting; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Private family graveside services will be held at Pine Glen Cemetery in Prescott, Wisconsin. A Celebration of Gary's Life will be held in the Spring of 2021. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Regina Hospital Cancer Center, American Cancer Society, or to the donor's choice in memory of Gary. Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.