Charles Theodore Lueckenhoff

Charles Theodore Lueckenhoff (Luke), age 96, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 10, 2016, at the home of his daughter in Amelia Island, Fla. Born in Jefferson City, Mo., he was the second youngest and last living of six children born to the late George Joseph and Mathilda R. Schulte Lueckenhoff. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Jessie, of whom he enjoyed 52 years of marriage, before her death in 1999. He grew up in Jefferson City, where he graduated from St. Peter's High School, before being drafted into the United States Army Air Corps. He served on active duty in the European Theatre where he rose to the rank of Chief Master Sargent. Upon being honorably discharged in the late 1940s, he assumed the civilian position in Procurement at Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Ga. He rose to be the Deputy Chief of Procurement (GS 16) before he retired in 1987. Luke was a faithful servant at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Warner Robins since 1950. He dedicated himself in innumerable ways both large and small, that contributed to the development of and loving spirit of the parish. He was a founding member of the Knights of Columbus where he cherished his dear friendships. Affectionately known by his family as "Dida", he was a gentle man with the spirit of a servant, always being more concerned about the wellbeing of others before himself. In his retired years he enjoyed birdwatching, airplanes (he could tell you what each contrail meant), working the crossword puzzles in the New York Times, gardening with his grandchildren, and fishing. During his stay in Amelia Island, he cherished his YMCA friends. He exercised three days a week. They had become his extended family who added great joy to his life and contributed greatly to his well-being. Luke was the cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather of the family he loved. He leaves behind, his twin daughters: Carla R. Hartrich and her husband John of Fernandina Beach, Fla., and Antonia "Toni" Zinn and her husband David of Anniston, Ala.; nine adoring grandchildren: David Zinn, Andrew C. Zinn (Beth Hill Zinn), Moira Zinn Carlson (James), John Paul Zinn, Michael Zinn, Dominick Zinn, Jennifer Hartrich Schriver, Christie Hartrich Bronstein (Michael), Julie Hartrich Herbig (James C. Herbig Jr.); 14 precious great-grandchildren; and his dear friend, Nina Kern. Luke will be remembered as a gentle servant, a quiet presence, who filled the room with wisdom. The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 15, 2016 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Warner Robins, Ga. with the Reverend Father Fred Nijem, Celebrant. His family received friends on Thursday, at the church, from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service. Please share his Life Legacy and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com