Gene Paul Lucas, 67, Sturgis, left this life, Thursday, December 4th, at his home with loved ones by his side. He now resides in our hearts and forever in precious memories.

Visitation will be 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday December 10, 2008 at the Grace Lutheran Church in Sturgis with Pastor Michael Fox officiating. Burial follows at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with military honors by the Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard.

A memorial has been established to the Grace Lutheran Church.

Gene was born January 31, 1941 at Dupree, SD, to Paul and Nelda (Herbst) Lucas. He was the second of three children.

As a young lad, his family moved to Sturgis where he received his education. After graduation he joined the Army National Guard for a brief time and decided he wanted more. He enlisted in the US Army where he was able to realize his dream of travel and continued service to his country.

Soon after his tour of duty, Gene was destined to meet and fall in love with Mavis Marcella Larson. They were married March 18, 1965. To this union two healthy, robust boys were born. Jeffrey Gene and Jason Eugene, were named in honor of their father.

Gene was a welder of expertise. He used his talent to establish Lucas Welding and served the community for many years.

After retiring in 1997, Gene realized there was another passion within him; woodworking. He spent days upon days creating beautiful carvings for special friends and those he loved. Just bring him a tree branch and the magic would begin.

During the summer of 2006, Gene was feeling a little restless. He was offered a position with the City of Sturgis, Parks Department and decided to pursue another venture. He enjoyed the camaraderie and working with everyone. It was a special time for him.

Gene was loved and respected by all who knew him. Farewell.

Survivors include his wife Mavis Lucas, Sturgis; sons Jeff and Jason (Vicki Dwinell) Lucas, all of Sturgis; one sister Marilyn Barnett, Sturgis; one brother Nick Lucas, Rapid City, SD; aunt Vivian Herbst, Sturgis; grandson, Tyler Lucas, numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two nephews, Wayne and Mike Barnett, one great niece, Davina and several aunts and uncles.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.