Robert Gregory "Bob" Lucas, 74, died of complications from a bone marrow transplant on February 21, 2024, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. His two-year battle with MDS cancer was marked by the same strength and resolution that defined his life.
Born in Celina, Ohio in 1949, Bob was a proud alumnus of Ada High School and Bowling Green State University. He served in the U.S. Army from 1970-72 and later furthered his commitment to social service with a Master of Social Work from Michigan State University. He spent his career helping others, touching countless lives and making significant contributions to institutions in Danville, Virginia and Marion, Indiana, including Grant-Blackford Mental Health and the Veterans' Administration. An avid sports enthusiast, Bob's passion for running, baseball, softball, and tennis was exceeded only by his commitment to his family and community. His spirited presence on the field and court mirrored his approach to life – energetic and tenacious.
Bob cherished his 52-year marriage to Patricia (Klingler). He was a loving father to Rob Lucas, Sarah Lucas, Joanna Young (Tyler), and son-in-law Matthew Cruickshank; and a devoted grandfather to James, Jonathan, and Anna Cruickshank and to Charlotte and Sadie Young. He is also survived by sisters Kathy Pellegrin (Mike), Rhonda Lewis, sisters-in-law Dianne Gerdeman and Kimberly Arthur (Vaughn), and brother-in-law Douglas Klingler (Cindy). He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Patricia; sister Debra Blain and her son Michael, for whom he served as a trustee; and brothers-in-law Bill Lewis and Roger Gerdeman.
In line with his wishes, no services will be held. Donations may be made to Healing Wheels (www. healingwheelsva.org), which provides cancer patients with transportation to treatments. Bob's warmth and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Karen Weslh
March 1, 2024
I have fond memories working with Bob. Also,corporate challenge was a great social event with Bob. He was good man and I am greateful to have a friendship with Bob. He always made time to assist with any problems of how to respond to clients. He helped me develop my career.
Delores
February 28, 2024
So very sad that we have lost a dear friend.
Delores
246 Heritage Cove
Belinda Hussong
February 28, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Fond memories of Bob and our boys during tennis days at MHS.
Sheryl Putman-Smith
February 27, 2024
When I get together with my Brothers NOW, I'm reminded of the FAMILY Dinners' we had as kids growing up. What fun we used to have; alkyds should have a farm to run and hide on.
Sherry Putman-Smith (Cousin)
Bob Cassler
February 27, 2024
I´m saddened by the loss of Bob. He enjoyed working with Veterans and was well liked by them. I had the pleasure of working alongside Bob and was pleasant to work with. He enjoyed life.
Harriet and Paul Thompson
February 27, 2024
Fond remembrances of a great neighbor and his family in Danville, Va. many years ago. May God bless your family.
Jo Ann and Fred Moore
February 27, 2024
Bob and I (Jo Ann) were a year apart in the MSU MSW program, but I didn't actually meet him until he interviewed me for a job at DPMHC in Danville, Virginia. We worked together there and at SVMHI, and I
soon got to know his wonderful family, Pat and the children, through church. He was a terrific supervisor and friend to me, a beloved therapist for his clients, and a most devoted husband and father. His life made the world a better place. Sending love and virtual hugs to Pat, their children, grandchildren, and siblings.
Lee and Michelle Tracy
February 26, 2024
We only knew Bob for a short time, but so much enjoyed his engaging personality and our interaction while he attended to his Mustang! Such a loss to our community.
John and Sandy Teal, neighbors
February 26, 2024
Bob was a good neighbor, Always helpful! Some of our memories: Bob detailing his dearly loved ruby red Mustang convertible; Bob at our door delivering Pat's banana bread after grandchildren visit. He will be missed by all. John and Sandy Teal
Judy & George
February 26, 2024
We are saddened
We all lost a caring, honest man
The world is different
Bob will forever be missed
We hope that you all find peace & comfort with your memories
Sincerely
Judy & George
Linda and Bill Barlow
February 26, 2024
Bob and his bright smile will be sorely missed. His contributions to our community and our lives were immense. Our hearts are broken.
Ross E Reeves
February 25, 2024
Shocked and saddened to hear. Enjoyed working with Bob for many years in Marion, In.
Jane and Mike Cline
February 25, 2024
We were so sad to hear the news of Bob's death. May the Lord comfort all of you. The world has lost a terrific guy. Jane and Mike Cline
Carol Hardin
February 25, 2024
I was so sad to hear that Bob had died. I worked with him at GBMHI in Marion, Indiana. He cared about people and it showed in his work. He was very competitive and took his sports very seriously, I loved that about him. He was good at whatever he did. He was very proud of his family. I hadn't seen him for a couple of years, he was working at the VA, but he took the time to stop by my house to let me know that he was retiring and moving to Florida. He was excited. I am going to miss you Bob, and I will always remember you.
Jonathan Cruickshank
February 24, 2024
When I see tennis I always think of Bob (my grandpa). He was always playing tennis games at the tennis court and was really good.
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