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LUCAS FINNEGAN Obituary

LUCAS JAMES FINNEGAN On September 20th of 2012, Lucas James Finnegan (aka Luke, Luca, PATH, Pathway, the opener, daemon, alighinflesh and many others) left this world at 32 years of age. He was born under eucalyptus in Santa Monica, CA on June 1, 1980 but raised among the piñon and apple in Santa Fe, NM. For some, the passage through life is perilous, and his was extremely so, for his mind was not always his to guide. Yet he was courageous and where he walked and those he touched knew the best of themselves. He fought valiantly for his sanity, but in the end that battle cost him his life. Poetry, story, music, physics and math were glimpses of his brilliant search for truth. Lucas leaves his parents, Louisa Putnam and Patrick Finnegan, and a brother, Rowan Finnegan, whom he loved deeply. He is also survived by his "Carebear," Kari Albert; his "Sister Star," Emilie Anne Jacobs; his niece, Elias Castle Jacobs Finnegan; the Putnams of Keene, NH; the Finnegans of Cincinnati, OH; and a large family of friends across the world, including beloved friends he made at United World College. "We will miss his relentless tenacious creativity, mischievous grin, gentle way of loving, curiosity, outrageousness, compassion, playfulness, tenderness, earnestness, and supple nonlinear mind. We are honored to have known him and have been changed by loving him." Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Foundation for Excellence in Mental Healthcare, for the "LJF Fund", P.O. Box 3772 Wilsonville, OR 97070.

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

Published by Santa Fe New Mexican from Sep. 26 to Oct. 3, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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January 7, 2013

Luke was amazing, plain & simple. I will miss his light & love of life tremendously. He was one of those rare humans who dared to stand apart from the rest. I send heartfelt prayers for his family: may God bless as you move through this passage.

Jennifer DuClos (Varela)

October 8, 2012

Lucas is still fifteen years old in my memories - unusually soulful and deep - artistic, handsome, sensitive, a loving brother and son. At school, he impressed us by being studious and conscientious about his learning - unwaveringly focused on his goals. I once captured a portrait of Lucas - I still have it- he looks like a Roman statue - so serious, regal and wise. My fondest memory of Lucas is reading poetry together by a fire at the Finnegan home one evening after dinner. I recall thinking, what special young men these Finnegan boys are - what a beautiful family. Sending all of you love and comfort at this difficult passage, and the assurance that his spirit lives on in those of us lucky enough to have shared time with him.

October 4, 2012

Oh, I just learned of Luke's passing and am so saddened to know that the earth has lost this rare, kind soul. I have clear memories of Luke when he was a high school student, including his insightful, hopeful decision to attend UWC. Kindness and healing blessings to the family...Christina Griffith

Sefanie Beninato

October 4, 2012

I am happy to have known Luc--mostly growing up but also through his brother and in odd meetings with Luc. He was a shining star like his brother. May he rest in peace before undertaking his next quest :-).

Eliza Sultan

October 3, 2012

I have such fond memories of Luke both growing up and in more recent years. He is a kind and dear person who I will miss. Much love to all of his family...

Lloyd Gail and Ryan Takeshita

October 3, 2012

We were so sorry to hear about Luke. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ryan Gail and Lloyd

Cate Collins

October 2, 2012

Luke was a dear friend of mine growing up, and I think of him often. He will always have a place in my heart. Much love to his family.

September 28, 2012

My dear family, Our love and thoughts are with you all gathered in Santa Fe this week, sharing your fond memories and supporting each other. Our hearts are with you. With love, Bob & Heather & David & Christopher & Maddy Lane.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

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