Daniel J. Lucas

Daniel J. Lucas, 102, a longtime resident of Peckville, died Thursday afternoon at Geisinger Community Medical Center, Scranton. His wife of 62 years, Pauline "Pinky" Lucas, preceded him in death on Aug. 6, 2008.

Born in Eynon, on Aug. 16, 1914, he was the son of the late Daniel and Mary Shalkey Lucas. Danny was a veteran of World War II, having served with the Army's 5th Calvary, 113th Calvary Reconnaissance Squadron, in battles at Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the European-Africa-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with four bronze stars. He belonged to Veterans of Foreign Wars Shopa-Davey Post 6082, Peckville, since 1947, and was an active member of its Honor Guard, providing military honors for countless veterans throughout the years.

Before retiring, Danny worked as a psychiatric aide at Clarks Summit State Hospital. He was a faithful member of St. Adalbert's Polish National Catholic Church, Dickson City, and its YMS of R and Aurora Lodge 523 Free and Accepted Masons, Jermyn.

Danny's was a life well lived. He was dedicated to his wife, his church and his country. After the war, he committed to living a healthy life, and it served him well. At the age of 102, he had a clear mind, was still able to live in his own home and stay active with both his church and his veteran activities. He always greeted everyone with a cheerful hello and a friendly smile. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Surviving are three sisters, Loretta Harris, Dorothy Warren and Jane Kapinus; and many nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by two brothers, John Lucas and George Lucas; and three sisters, Mary Swift, Olga Wanas and Ann Dumont.

The funeral will be Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. from the Hedley W. Mason Funeral Home, 436 Main St., Peckville, with full military honors by Shopa Davey Post 6082. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 in St. Adalbert's Polish National Catholic Church, Dickson City. Interment with military honors will take place Thursday at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

Friends may call on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. There will be a YMS of R prayer service held at 6:30 p.m., followed by Masonic Services by Aurora Lodge 523 at 6:45.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Adalbert's PNC Church, 515 Mary St., Dickson City, PA 18519.