Donald Frank Lucas

Donald Frank Lucas, 85, formerly of Ludlow died Monday, April 17th 2023. He was born in Somers, CT, the son of the late Frank and Bernice Lucas. Don was educated from the Springfield Public School System and was a graduate of the former Springfield Trade School.

He was employed for many years with Art Cement Products Company of Wilbraham as a pattern maker and carpenter. Don enjoyed and was skilled in carpentry, automotive repair, plumbing and electrical work. He was an all-around handyman who always enjoyed helping out his family and friends whenever they were in need.

Don was an avid reader, enjoyed marksmanship, and at one time was an off road motorcycle racer who competed and won awards. He also enjoyed gardening and sharing the fruits of his labor with his family.

Don leaves his beloved children, Eric Lucas and his wife Elizabeth of East Longmeadow, and Jennifer Lucas of Springfield; 5 grandchildren, Jonathan, Lexy, Joseph, Emilee, and Robert; and a beloved nephew, Jim Barowsky; along with many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed.

"You always had a strong will, that was your course,

and as a small child you learned to ride a horse.

To fix and to build, that was your knack,

a multitude of one liners you did not lack.

Though many of them we cannot repeat,

a more straight shooter you could not meet.

You often said "I'll eat anything but liver."

And when you had a garden you were quite the giver.

You were a skilled mechanic,

and passed on your knowledge to your son Eric.

For your daughter Jenn you painted rooms and built a deck that led to her pool,

and for Eric you built a work bench that could hold every tool.

"Good people" is what you'd call someone you grew to like,

and you enjoyed motocross and taught your kids how to ride a dirtbike.

You always had your nose in a different book,

and you'd always use plenty of garlic whenever you'd cook.

For over 20 years you worked at Art Cement,

and you loved to brag about your cheap apartment rent.

You weren't quite sure what the future would hold,

but we know everything is in God's hands, and the promises in the Bible

will take place, just as foretold.