Richard Lukich

1954 - 2024

age 70, born March 5, 1954, passed away April 10, 2024. With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Richard Allen Lukich (Rick), who departed this world unexpectedly on April 10, 2024, at the age of 70. Rick's journey began in Cleveland, Ohio, on March 5, 1954, born to the late John and Ellen Lukich. His enduring legacy lives on through his devoted wife, Shauna(Welch), his former wife Lisa Lukich (Rosenjack), their beloved children, Jillian Lukich and Garrick Lukich (Laura) and his cherished grandchildren, Jayden and Maya Daniello. As well as, Kyle, Trent, Dylan, Holly. Rick also leaves behind his dear brother, Ralph J Lukich (Anita), sister Rebecca Keeney (Danny), and a host of relatives and friends who held him in high esteem.
Rick's remarkable life was marked by a profound commitment to his community and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He was a graduate of James F. Rhodes High School and Cleveland State University, where he earned degrees in Communications and later a Juris Doctorate. Admitted to the Ohio Bar Association in 1982, Rick embarked on a distinguished career as District Counsel for the Small Business Administration, spanning over three decades. His dedication to his work was matched only by his passion for serving others.
Beyond his professional achievements, Rick's impact reverberated throughout Cleveland and beyond. As President of Broadview Heights City Council, Scoutmaster of Cub Scout Pack 652, and coach of numerous little league baseball teams, he touched the lives of countless individuals, inspiring them to strive for greatness. Rick was also an avid member of the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen Association and Edgewater Yacht Club, where he fostered lifelong friendships and made enduring memories.
In 1998, Rick's vision and compassion led him to co-found Constellation Community Schools, pioneering one of the earliest charter schools in Cleveland. What began as a humble endeavor in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood burgeoned into a transformative organization spanning fifteen schools across ten neighborhoods. For 23 years, Rick's leadership left an indelible mark on thousands of students, families, and the community at large, embodying his unwavering commitment to education and empowerment.
Sailing and travel became Rick's true passions in life. He first felt the allure of the open waters on Lake Erie, where he learned to sail with unbridled enthusiasm. However, Lake Erie could not contain his adventurous spirit, and he eventually set his sights on the vast blue expanse of the Caribbean. It was aboard their beloved ship, 'Undone,' that Rick and Shauna embarked on countless adventures, forging enduring friendships and creating cherished memories along the way. Whether navigating the gentle waves of Lake Erie or the boundless horizons of the Caribbean, Rick found solace and joy in the freedom of the open sea, leaving his mark on all who shared in his maritime adventures.
Rick's magnetic personality and generous spirit endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He cherished his life long friendships and nurtured them with care, leaving behind a legacy of love and camaraderie that will endure for generations to come.
In honor of Rick's zest for life, his family invites friends and loved ones to gather on May 11, 2024, at Forest City Brewing, 2135 Columbus Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44113, from 11 am to 3 pm, Rick's wish was for a vibrant and celebratory gathering, where friends and family come together to share cherished memories filled with color, music and joy. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Constellation Schools Scholarship Fund would be deeply appreciated, continuing Rick's legacy of service and education.