MICHAEL JOSEPH LUTES

Apr. 14, 1974 – July 10, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce that our beloved younger brother, Michael "Mike" Joseph Lutes passed away on July 10, 2025.

Michael was born on April 14, 1971, in Escondido, CA. In 1973, his family moved to El Centro, where he attended McKinley Elementary, Kennedy Jr. High and graduated from Central Union High School in 1989. He also received a degree in Accounting at a business school in El Centro.

In the mid 2000's, Michael moved to Chula Vista, where he was employed as a pest exterminator for over 25 years with numerous companies.

He is survived by his daughter, Elena Lutes; siblings, Bernadette, Prospero, Xavier; and six nieces and one nephew.

Services will be held on July 28, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church for both Michael and our mother, Martha Gonzales Lutes, who passed away on July 6, 2025. Services will begin with a rosary at 9 a.m., mass at 10 a.m., and a burial immediately following at Evergreen Cemetery in El Centro.

In lieu of flowers, family request that donations be made in honor of both Michael and Martha Lutes to the following charities; National Shrine of St. Jude’s in Chicago, IL, Shrineofstjude.org, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at Stjude.org, and Shriners Children at donate.lovetotherescue.org

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Imperial Valley Press Online from Jul. 24 to Jul. 25, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL LUTES

10 Entries

Toby Wood

July 29, 2025

My deepest condolences to the Lutes Family. Michael was one of my best friends growing up. From McKinley, Kennedy and Central. We even played Little League together on the Indians. Seems like yesterday we were eating MRE´s your brother had left when he was in the Army and playing catch in your backyard. Was just thinking about you the other day, as I was driving around El Centro and passed your parents house. Wish I would´ve called you then.

Therese Jenkins

July 28, 2025

Gonna miss seeing you cousin mike. Rest in heaven. Love always your cousin Therese

Esther Acosta

July 28, 2025

Michael we met when we started to travel our school path together-McKinley Elementary, Kennedy Middle School, and Central. There were a lot of memories made during that journey.
I will remember walking home together in high school, giving each other a hard time, and always your smile like you were up to something. You were always your own person and true to yourself. You left us with good memories. I am sorry we were not able to meet up one last time before you left this earth. You will be missed. Rest in peace my friend.

Condolences to the Lutes family for your loss.

Gina milanes morolla

July 26, 2025

I´m so sad to hear the passing of your mother and brother. May you remember all happy times together. The photos of smiles they left behind. Their voice messages on your phone. All this helps us get thru this sad time. Take care. God is with you - sincerely Gina

Margie Milanes

July 25, 2025

To the Lutze Family,

We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your beloved mother on July 6th, and now the heartbreaking loss of your brother on July 10th. Words cannot express the pain of losing two so dear in such a short time.

Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time. May you find strength in one another, comfort in the memories you hold close, and peace in knowing they are together in eternal rest.

With our deepest sympathy,
Margie Milanes

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The Koski´s

July 25, 2025

We loved Mike and remember him with sincere respect. He was larger than life from the day we met! His beautiful smile, laugh, and warm welcoming spirit were contagious.
Praying for you all and with our deepest sympathy,
The Koski Family.

Olga Mendez (Velazquez)

July 24, 2025

I am so sorry about Michael. I know the pain you are feeling, and I know that there are no words that I can say that will make the pain go away. May God bless you all.

Sharon Anderholt

July 24, 2025

It is with such sadness that I have to say goodbye to my sweet Michael. Michael was my 2nd grade student my first year as a teacher. A friendship developed that prospered over the years. He came to me to tell me his father had passed away when I was a Principal. We kept in contact through the years. On July 6th he called me to tell me his mom had passed. His message went to voicemail, which I treasure his voice. I returned his call , and enjoyed catching up with his life and looking forward to seeing him. I was so happy that he and his daughter Elena had visited with his mom/Nana before she passed. Martha loved her baby boy & his daughter ElenaMartha loved all her children and grandchildren to the moon and back. They made her life sparkle!!May they both Rest In Peace.

Marco G

July 23, 2025

God bless you, Mike. May peace be with you. I remember you from our Kennedy and Central days. It has been over 30 years since I last spoke to you. These news sadden me. So young to be taken......Reat in peace, Mike.

Frank

July 21, 2025

I am still can´t believe he´s gone. My eyes still looking for him. He was Great person. Always trying to help me. I pray for him. But we will miss him. Frank

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