Lorraine Lukas

1/21/1930 - 3/15/2022

Lorraine Ann Lukas passed away peacefully on March 15 at age 92, surrounded by her longtime caregivers, Megan Gruey and grandson Stephen Lukas.

Lorraine was born near Wilkes-Barre, PA on January 21, 1930 to parents Ann Boben Rekus and Peter G. Rekus.

Lorraine, being the oldest of four, always enjoyed working. Starting after school at her father’s dry-cleaning business, and later for resorts in Atlantic City and the Poconos.

She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and later enrolled at Bloomsburg College and Penn State University—where she met & married Benjamin Lukas in 1951.

Ben’s job took the family from New York City and Schenectady, NY before finally settling in San Diego working for General Atomic in 1962. Together, they started a family and raised five children—Robert, Paul, William, Gabrielle, and John.

Lorraine was active at church and a kind, supportive mother — but she secretly desired to finish college. So, while still actively raising children, she boldly enrolled at the University of San Diego in her 40’s and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1972.

She worked for Sharp Hospital as a pathologist; then San Diego City College and Mesa College as an Admissions Officer; and, a travel agent. Her love of travel took her to many places including, Denmark, Hawaii, Iceland, London, Paris, Panama, Mexico, and the Cook Islands. Lorraine has also hosted over two dozen foreign exchange students at her home in later years. Her musical interests include ballroom dancing and playing the piano and organ.

Lorraine is preceded in death by her parents Ann and Peter Rekus; her sister Geri Titus (Bob), her husband Benjamin Lukas, son William; and second husband, Nelson Hinchee.

Lorraine is survived by her children Robert (Linda), Paul (Denise), Suzanne Gabrielle and John (Fiorenza); her brothers Rick Rekus (Nancy) and Roy Rekus; grandchildren Stephen, Richard (Leilani), Patrick (Amanda), Carina, Ashley, Francesca; and great-grandchildren Warren, Quinn, Kyle, and Mykayla.

Viewing will be held Friday, March 25 from 10-10:30am at All Hallows Church, 6602 La Jolla Scenic Dr.

La Jolla, CA.

Mass follows at 11am. Friends and family are invited to meet after mass to celebrate her life with refreshments in the parish hall.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pacificbeachchapel.com for the Lukas family.