John Lucchese

LUCCHESE, JOHN John V. Lucchese, age 86, of Grand Rapids, passed away on May 17, 2013. John was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Bernadine, and his parents, Anna and Ignazio Lucchese. He is survived by his loving wife, Nora (Holler); his children, John C. "Jr." (Lisa) Lucchese, Patricia (William) McCormack, Rosemary (John) Lucchese-Friar, Jim (Diana) Lucchese, David (Barb) Lucchese; sister, Fran (Ron) McKeller; brother, Vincent Lucchese; brother, Sam Lucchese; 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; his loving step-family; and very special friend, Michael (Judy) Murphy. John was a WWII U.S. Army veteran who served in the Phillipines and Occupied Japan. He worked for Michigan Bell for 41 years and was a Charter Member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. He was an All-State football player with South High-Class of 1946. John loved golfing (Great Lakes Seniors), bowling, and fishing (Esnagi Lodge in Canada), but mostly he loved and cherished his family. He had many friends. He was an accomplished cook, it was nothing for him to pull together breakfast for 17 or more at his peaceful log cabin on the lake. He was a man with many answers-whether you needed a great recipe or advice. He always knew the correct thing to say. We will forever miss his sweet smile and gentle nature-for he truly defined the meaning of the word, "Dad". We love and will miss you forever, Poppa. Visitation will be held on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton SE, with the Rosary prayed at 6:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 AM at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church with Rev. Ted Kozlowski as celebrant. Visitation will also be held on Tuesday one hour prior to the service at church. Interment at Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice or the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.