Walter Joseph Lukina

Walter (Wally) Lukina of La Quinta, CA, 92, passed away peacefully at home on May 1 with his wife and children at his side. He was born in Chicago, IL on July 8, 1924. He was preceded in death by son, Wayne Joseph. Wally is survived by his loving wife, Delores Bruzan Lukina of 68 years; sons, Warren James, Wesley Jay (Cheryl Knox), daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Lukina (Dan Morefield) and grandchildren, Gregory Lukina (Morgan Lyng), Taryn Lukina Navarro (Raul Navarro), Heath Lukina Shoup (Lindsay Closson), Kurtis Lukina (Carla Globerson-Lamb) and great grandchildren, David Wayne, Bodie James, Matthew (Mateo) Victor & Nicholas “Nico” Vaughn. He graduated from Broadview Academy, in Illinois and concurrently joined the Army during WWII. He served in the American Theater and later when recalled in the Army of Occupation Japan 1951. Upon discharge he received the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Ribbon w/2 Bronze Stars, Victory Medal (WW2), American Defense Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Distinguished Unit Emblem, Presidential Unit Citation (4) Over Seas Bars and (1) Hash Mark. In 1952 Wally, Delores and Wayne (10 months) packed their possessions and headed to California seeking a new adventure in the sun. In 1955, he attained his 32nd degree from Azusa Masonic Lodge #305. Wally was an active volunteer in his sons’ activities including leader of their Boy Scout Troops, speed roller skating, drama activities, baseball, football & snow skiing. He retired from Solar Turbines in 1993 as Senior Quality Engineer. After retirement he was a devoted volunteer for the Women’s World Class Tennis events in La Costa, CA for 13 years as well as the local World Class Indian Wells Tennis Garden manning Tickets & Gates. He enjoyed providing hospital tours for 1st Grade children in the P.S. Desert Health Care District & helped launch the Dental Van via Tempo de Los Ninos. He supported and helped Delores’ volunteerism during her 22 years as VP-Acquisitions for Anza-Borrego Foundation. A private Celebration of Life is planned for the immediate family for some time in the future. In lieu of flowers donations to Dana Farber Cancer Centers via PMC bike ride can be sent www.pmc.org enter beecy in search window, opens Beecy’s page – on-line donation can be made. or www.borregobasic.org or www.abf.org or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Trident Society – Rancho Mirage, CA.