Vincent J. Luta, 85

Vincent J. Luta, 85, of Lancaster, waltzed into Heaven surrounded by the love of his caring family and Hospice staff, on Friday evening, July10th at the Essa Flory Hospice Center.

Vince was the husband of Agnes J. Rovinski Luta, with whom he celebrated 62 dedicated years of marriage. Born in Atlas, PA, Vince was the son of the late Vincent and Antoinette Derwinski Luta.

He retired from Fuller Company, Manheim in 1988 after working 33 years as a machinist. He served as the financial secretary for Local 1778 of the Machinist’s Union for 15 years. Vince was a 55 year member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, where he served as an usher for 25 years.

Vince enjoyed life and cherished his family. He was an avid storyteller capable of turning a simple tale into one of wonder and humor. Dancing and music was an important part of his life. He and Agnes were charter members of the Dutchland Polkateers, providing presentations of their polka abilities and members of the Lebanon Polka Pals, St. John Neumann’s Senior Club, and the Polish Cultural Club of Mt. Carmel, PA.

Vince spent his 21 years of retirement enjoying travel throughout the United States and had an opportunity to visit the Polish homeland of his parents. Vince also enjoyed the time he spent in his wood shop. There are many less homeless birds today due to his birdhouse making talent.

A US Army veteran of World War II, Vince served as an anti-tank gunner and corporal in the Battle of the Bulge and in the European Theater. During his service time, he received, among other commendations, the Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children: Vince R. married to Lynn of Hopeland, PA, Francis T. married to Diane of Brownstown, Diana married to Jim Koller of Marietta, and Christine E.  married to Chance Miller of Lancaster; his 10 grandchildren, Nathan, Ian, Kendra, Izaak, Jonathon, Caitlyn, Caitlin, Luke, Madison, and Sidney; his two great grandchildren Raya Jane and Lennox Vincent; a sister, Bertha Long of Shamokin and a brother Leonard Luta of Mt. Carmel.

Friends will be received on Monday from 7-9PM at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 414 E. King St., Lancaster, PA, with a Christian Prayer Service at 8:15PM. On Tuesday, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1PM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 501 E. Orange St., Lancaster, PA 17602 with the Rev. Daniel Mitzel as Celebrant. Interment in St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in his memory to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church or to Hospice of Lancaster County, 685 Good Dr., Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. To send an online condolence, please visit www.snyderfuneralhome.com