Paul M. Lukas

Paul M. Lukas, 74, of Worcester, a retired Lieutenant of the Worcester Police, passed away on Thursday, August 12, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.  His loving wife, Charlene M. (Koncel) Lukas, predeceased him in October 2007 after a long battle with ALS.

Paul is survived by his daughter, Stacey Savage her husband Kurt of Douglas with whom he lived.  He was beloved “Pa” to his two granddaughters, Kira Simoncini and Emma Savage, the lights of his life.  He also leaves a brother, Michael Gordon of Worcester; two sisters, Marcia Hansen of Worcester, and Susan Welburn of Middletown, CT; his companion, Irene Bastardo of Worcester; two loving dogs, Chache and Sophie; cousins, nieces and nephews.  Paul was born in Worcester, son of the late, Sylvester and Elizabeth (Hyder) Lukasiewicz and has lived here all his life.  He graduated from Classical High School and later received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Westfield State College.

Paul proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and served his nation during 3 tours in the Vietnam War as a Navy Gunner’s Mate Petty Officer 2nd Class as part of the Navy Mobile Riverine Unit on Swift Boat 38 where he earned two purple hearts and Navy Commendations.

Paul, also known as “Luke” by many, was a Police Officer for the City of Worcester for nearly forty years before retiring as Lieutenant.  His brothers in the department became part of his family, and he dedicated his life to serve and protect them and his community.  During his time on the force he received the Watercarrier Award for his commitment to the men and women of the WPD.  One of his many joys was to be part of the Worcester Police Pipes and Drums Band.  He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Police, the Worcester Police Relief Association, the Swift Boat Sailors Association, the Worcester Veterans Center, and the Vernon Hill Post.

Luke spent most of his retirement adoring his daughter and granddaughters.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing trips with friends, meeting for Wednesday coffees, and with his Thursday Veteran group.  He took pride in his “mini orchard” of fruit trees, his classic cars, and sharing time and stories with family and friends.

Calling Hours will be on Tuesday, August 17, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.  His Funeral will be on Wednesday, August 18, at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home.  Following the services he will be laid to rest beside his wife, Charlene at Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Veterans Inc, 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 or to the ALS Foundation, by visiting www.als.org/massachusetts.