Michael Luck

Michael E. Luck (1946 – 2025) of Gahanna, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 18, surrounded by loved ones.
Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, to Leonard and Shirlee Luck (née Kay), Michael and his sister were the first of two sets of twins welcomed into the world by their parents-a unique start to a life filled with laughter, family, and community. His father and uncle owned the renowned Lucky Shoes store in Akron, and growing up on Bennington Road, Michael was blessed to live in a home filled with extended family and friends, including his future brother-in-law, Bobby Kellerman, and his lifelong best friend, Rick Vesler. The warmth and love he felt as a child shaped the way he treated others throughout his life.
After graduating from Buchtel High School in 1964, Michael headed three hours south to attend Ohio University, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts. He proudly considered himself a son of Athens and was thrilled to watch both of his sons follow in his footsteps and earn their degrees from his beloved alma mater. A Bobcat for life, Michael's love for OU never wavered.
Following college, he moved to St. Louis to begin his career in retail. It was there where he met the love of his life, Lynne Rae Abrams. They were married for 53 years, and from the beginning, he became an honorary member of the Abrams family. Michael was never "just" an in-law. From day one, he was a brother, a son, and a friend.
In 1988, Michael moved with Lynne and their two sons to Gahanna, Ohio, where he partnered with his brother in continuing the family business by running shoe stores in the area. Gahanna soon became home, and he built deep roots in a treasured community that still means so much to his family.
In retirement, Michael gave deeply of himself. A devoted son, he served as caregiver for his father, Leonard. He later volunteered with Jewish Family Services through the "Friendly Visitor" program, spending countless hours each week taking new friends to lunch, family gatherings, and other meaningful outings that impacted Michael, those he supported, and those lucky enough to join in. After several years of service, he was honored in 2018 as Volunteer of the Year by Jewish Family Services, and Michael continued that mission of compassion as he supported his best friend Rick during his illness.
Michael often said that his life could be summed up in one perfect week in 2016: the Cleveland Cavaliers championship, his youngest son's wedding, and his 70th birthday. He truly relished moments of joy and celebration, especially when surrounded by those he loved.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Lynne; sons Jay Luck (Mary Beth) and Adam Luck (Connie); siblings Barbara Bershon (Jim), Cathy Kellerman (Bobby), and Joel Luck (Rebecca); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were truly family. He never knew a stranger and his generosity of spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, July 23rd at Temple Israel, 3100 E. Broad St. Please wear something that reminds you of Michael.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Jewish Family Services Columbus (https://jfscolumbus.org).