Charlene Kay Lueck

Charlene Kay Lueck, a beloved educator and cherished friend, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus Hospital in Junction City, Kansas.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, followed by a Rosary from 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home, located at 203 N Washington St, Junction City, Kansas. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 218 North Washington Street, Junction City, Kansas. Father Peter O'Donnell with be the celebrant. She will be honored at a graveside service on Friday October 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery in Elm Creek, Nebraska.

Charlene was born on January 18, 1947, in Kearney, Nebraska the daughter of Charles Ward and Phyllis Jean (Sternberg) Moats.

Charlene married her best friend and high school sweetheart on November 26, 1966. Together they embarked on a journey filled with love and friendship. The love that they shared created a wonderful family legacy and left an impression on everyone they met.

For 36 years, Charlene graced Franklin Elementary School with her passion for education as a long-time teacher. Her students admired her not only for her knowledge and ability to inspire, but also for her kindness and deep concern for their feelings. Charlene often went above and beyond to ensure that each child felt valued and understood, leaving a lasting impact on countless young hearts.

Charlene received her Master of Arts in Special Education from Kansas State University and was an active member of her community. She was a dedicated and committed K-State fan with unwavering support and you never saw her without some purple on. She was a devout Catholic and member of the Saint Xavier Catholic Church where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and was deeply involved with The Circle IV, demonstrating her commitment to compassion and service. She was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Social Sorority and the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel. She was an enthusiastic Bunko player and always looked forward to attending a monthly Bunko group. She was also a member of the Mystery Book Club through the Junction City Library that was a highlight of her months.  

In her personal life, Charlene was known for her warm heart and love for animals, particularly her beloved dog, Bailey. She never met a stranger and everyone she met became her friend. She had a deep fondness for gardening, creating beautiful flowers that delighted not only her own yard but brought joy to those around her. The magical moments she shared with her family, whether during Disney Adventure Cruises or adventures at Disneyworld created lasting memories. Charlene captivated everyone with her elaborate decorations and love for every holiday while enjoying the hustle and bustle of being surrounded by her family. Her adventurous spirit led her and Fred and their family on multiple trips around the world including, Pompeii, East Berlin, Europe, South Korea, and Rome.

She is survived by her loving husband, Fred L. Lueck, who remains in their home in Junction City, Kansas. Her legacy continues through her son, Tim Lueck of Omaha, Nebraska, and her daughter, Carm Fay, along with her husband Jim of Longmont, Colorado. Charlene took great pride in her six grandchildren: Emma Lueck, Trevor Lueck, Maci Lueck, Patrick Fay, Delaney Lueck, and Izzy Fay, who brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

Charlene is also lovingly remembered by her brothers: Bruce Moats and his wife Charlene of Kearney, Nebraska; Dave Moats of North Platte, Nebraska; and Jim Moats and his wife Anne of Elm Creek, Nebraska. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Dan Moats.

As we reflect on Charlene's life, we remember her spirit of generosity, her lifelong dedication to education, and her ability to bring people together. Her unwavering love for her family and friends will continue to resonate in our lives.

Charlene Kay Lueck leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and lifelong learning that will forever warm the hearts she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to be given to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 218 N. Washington Street or Junction City Animal Shelter, 2424 N. Jackson Street and Geary County Food Pantry, 700A W. 7th Street all of Junction City, Kansas 66441.