Lucas J. Hecker

Lucas Joseph Hecker, age 101, passed peacefully into eternal life, having lived a century marked by grit, grace, and unwavering devotion. Born in a farmhouse, the ninth of tenchildren to John and Anna Mary Hecker (Herzog) in Park, Kansas, Lucas came of age on a humble farm during the era of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, formative years that shaped his enduring resilience and deep faith.

At age 19, having never even seen an ocean, with the world again engulfed in terrible conflict, Lucas answered the call to duty and enlisted in the United States Merchant Marines. He served in combat in the Pacific Theater during World War II. For his bravery and service, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. Amid the chaos of war, Lucas prayed for two things: to return home safely and to marry a wholesome Kansas girl. God, in His mercy, answered both. On June 11, 1955, Lucas married Elizabeth Marie Walsh of Concordia, Kansas, marking the beginning of a love story that spanned 64 years until her passing in 2020.

After the war, Lucas began his career as an electrician with Kansas Power and Light, where he played a vital role in bringing electricity to farms and rural communities. It was an effort that transformed the daily lives of countless families. He later accepted a position with General Dynamics, contributing to the electronic systems of the Atlas missile at Warren Air Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and in Roswell, New Mexico. Lucas and Elizabeth eventually settled in Colorado, where he worked at the Gates Rubber Company for 29 years. During his time at Gates, Lucas completed the rigorous CREI home study course and earned the title of Electrical Engineer, a testament to his determination and intellect.

Together, Lucas and Elizabeth raised seven children: Mary Beth (Merlin Van Gelder), Matthew (Dani), Luke (Tami), Linda, Andrew, Michael (Julie), and Thomas (Lisa), in a home built not just with lumber and wires, but with sacrifice, laughter, and faith. Lucas, who grew up without electricity or running water, often worked seven days a week to ensure his family never lacked warmth, light, or shelter. His labor was love made visible.

Retirement brought new adventures. Lucas and Elizabeth traveled the country and abroad on Princess Cruise Line ships, through Elderhostel, embracing each journey with curiosity and joy. A sit-to-be-fit class sparked a lifelong commitment to daily exercise, which they credited for their vitality and longevity. Their worn-out DVDs became symbols of their shared discipline and delight.

A cradle Catholic, Lucas lived his faith quietly but profoundly. After Elizabeth’s death, his devotion deepened, guiding him toward a holy and peaceful passing. His life was a testament to the power of prayer, perseverance, and partnership.

Lucas was preceded in death by his beloved wife Elizabeth, parents John and Anna Mary, siblings Mary Magdaleen, Emanuel (Mary), Martin (Frances), Monsignor Adolf, Remigus(Virginia), Liberatus (Renilda), Loraine (Ted Plucinski and Russ Gorman), Celestine (Olin Colip and Mike Rodgers), and his granddaughter, Nora Hecker.

He is survived by his brother, Greg, and sister-in-law, Jaennette; his seven children, 23 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren, each a living echo of his faith, strength, humor, and heart.

Two of Lucas’s favorite sayings were “Faith, Family and Friends; True happiness begins in the Home” and, to his family, a gentle but firm encouragement: “Carry On.”

Lucas Joseph Hecker’s story is one of quiet heroism, steadfast love, and a well-lived life. May he rest in the peace he so richly deserves, reunited with Elizabeth and held in the arms of the God he trusted all his days.

May he hear God say, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you have been faithful in small matters, I will entrust you with great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ (Matthew 25:21 and 25:23)

Rosary will be recited Sunday, October 5, 2025 , 2pm, Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 3101 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Lakewood. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, October 6, 2025, 11:30am, Notre Dame Catholic Church, 2190 S. Sheridan Blvd., Denver. Following mass at 1pm, burial at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Staging Area C.