Gerald Lucca

Age 71 of Gardner, Illinois, died Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at his home.

Born March 4, 1953, in Joliet, Illinois, Gerald was a son of Michael Lucca and Vera and Morris “Duke” Ellis, Sr. He was raised in Gardner; graduated from Gardner South Wilmington High School with the Class of 1971 and married Toni Hahn on January 9, 1981. 

 A hardworking man, Gerald dedicated 35 years to the Roofers Local #11 from where he retired. When he wasn't working, he enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities. He was an avid fisherman and a skilled gardener, spending countless hours tending to his garden and nurturing his daughters yard as well. His hands-on approach extended to fixing almost anything that needed repair, always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and family, particularly his beloved daughter and granddaughters. 

Gerald was an avid sports fan. His love for sports began in his youth and remained an important aspect of his life. While he enjoyed watching NASCAR, his greatest joy came from watching and supporting his granddaughters play their sports. He was their biggest fan. Being deeply involved, he would practice shooting hoops with them and would be at all their sporting events. Gerald was quite the cheerleader, always making his presence in the building well-known as he would holler and cheer them on for everyone to hear.

Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Toni; daughter, Kristen Lucca of Gardner; two granddaughters: Grace Wright (Jordan Shepherd) and Madison Wright, and eight siblings: Janet (John) Cerutti, Linda (Dean) Christensen, Gary (Kim) Lucca, Sandra Lucca, Margaret (Terry) Bollino, Lisa (Gerry) Sears, Todd Ellis (Destiny Korelc) and Lori Ellis, and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as his loving cats and grand dog, Lizzy.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents: Michael Lucca and Vera and Morris “Duke” Ellis, Sr.; his daughter, Emily Jo Lucca and one brother, Morris Ellis, Jr.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a private family celebration of life is being planned for a later date. 

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Gerald’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Gardner. (815/237-2526)