George E. Lucas

George E. Lucas, 84 of Gaylord, died at home on Thursday morning, May 22, 2014. Born in Detroit on September 23, 1929, George was the son of Thomas and Florence (Paquette) Lucas. After graduating from high school, George trained as an electrician and worked in the Detroit area for a number of years. On September 15, 1950 he married Kathleen Steer in Detroit. In the early 1950’s they moved with their young twin sons to Eastport, MI. George joined Grand Traverse Bay Telephone Company in 1955, which later became GTE and Verizon. He retired after 36 years from Verizon as a Switchman in 1991. George was a former volunteer firefighter and fire chief in Eastport. He was a man who could do many things well, enjoying the many building projects he became involved in over the years. In retirement, George and Kathleen wintered in Florida for several years. They had been Gaylord residents since the early 1990’s. Surviving is Kathleen, his wife of over 63 years; twin sons, Dean (Frances) Lucas and Dale (Emma Jean) Lucas both of Gaylord; grandchildren, Harmony (Grant) Hughes, Kathleen Lucas, Jon (Cindy) Lucas, Samantha (Tim) Smith and several great grandchildren. Also surviving is his brother, Tom Lucas and sister, Norma Lucas both of the Detroit area. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson, James E. Lucas and a brother, Lewis Lucas. George’s family will remember him with a private family gathering. Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to Hospice of Michigan. Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 850 North Center Ave.