John W. Lutkus, Jr.

John W. Lutkus, 88, passed away unexpectedly in his Marion home on March 7, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Edith “Paula” (Massucci) Lutkus and his four sons, William (Carrie), David (Janice), Douglas (Angela), and Gregory (Jennifer Semmrow), along with his grandson, Jack, and longtime caregiver and friend, Donna Burns.

John was born in Southington, Connecticut on January 25, 1936, to the late John and Helen (Yesutis) Lutkus. He spent much of his life residing in the Marion section of Southington, where he built his family's home on his parents' land, now known as Rochambeau’s Hill.

While attending Southington High School, John met his future wife Paula, whom he married in 1958. After graduating from the University of Connecticut with a B.S. in Business Administration, he embarked on a career journey that began in pharmaceutical sales, but quickly shifted into banking and finance by 1964. In addition to holding various managerial and executive positions in different financial establishments, he served in the U.S. Army and Reserve Corps from 1960 to 1989, achieving the rank of Full Colonel.

As an active member of the community, John chaired the Southington Heart Fund, served on the Board of Directors for the Central Chapter, and was involved in organizations such as the Reserve Officers Association, the Rotary Club of Southington, the Lion’s Club, and Literacy Volunteers of Central Connecticut. He had additionally coached for the SVMFL and was an active leader with the Boy Scouts of America during his sons' younger years.

As a man of faith, John was a devout parishioner of St. Aloysius for many years, contributing both financially and through active participation. He later attended Immaculate Conception in Waterbury, where he enjoyed Mass given by the Very Reverend James Sullivan.

Throughout his lifetime, John cherished spending time with his family, engaging in activities such as backpacking, fishing, and coaching sports. He had a passion for reading and gardening, and always relished the bustling atmosphere of his home during holidays and celebrations.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to Southington Bread for Life (https://southingtonbreadforlife.org) or to Southington Community Services, 91 Norton St. Plantsville, CT, 06479.

Calling hours will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on WEDNESDAY, March 13, 2024 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on FRIDAY, March 15, 2024 at St. Aloysius Church, 254 Burritt St., Plantsville, CT. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Thomas Cemetery, Southington, CT. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com