Jacob Lucas

Jacob Lucas died and went to be with his Lord in heaven on Monday, April 20, 2015, at the age of 91. He was preceded in death by wife, Esther H. Lucas, in 2010, after 64 years of marriage; also his brothers, Art Lucas and Harold Lucas. Jacob was a strong man of faith who was generous to all and was a dedicated daily prayer warrior for his family. He served his Lord with his time and talents with various disaster response teams, both in the U.S. and abroad. He was also influential in helping start the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity and served as past president of the Grand Rapids Home Builders Association. Jacob also served in the Naval 78^th Construction Battalion from December 1942- January 1946. He will be greatly missed by his children, Steve (Patsy) Lucas, Mary Lucas, Roger (Mary) Lucas, Marlene (Scott) Lehnert, Jessica (Jonah) Cajigas; grandchildren, Lona (Adam) VanLoozenoord, Jamie Erbes, Jenny Lucas, Katy Lucas, Hope Lucas, Jake Lucas, Steven Lucas, Jeff (Mandy) Lehnert, Laura (Ryan) Wiersema, Matt (Ashley) Lehnert, Sam Lehnert, Precious Cajigas, Faith Cajigas; great grandchildren, Ava, Abigail, Anna, Natalie, Jacob, Brielle, and Alexis; brother, Bob Lucas; sisters and brother-in-law: Ada and Harley Rillema, Esther Betten, Betty DeHaan, Doris Pennell; brother -in-law, Blaine Johnson; and several nieces and nephews. He was a loving father to 25 foster children. A funeral service will be held Friday 11 AM at South Grandville Christian Reformed Church, 4130 Wilson Ave. SW with Rev. Dr. Daniel Mouw officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4145 Chicago Drive SW, Grandville and on Friday from 10-11 AM prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Grandville Friendship Homes Inc. Interment Rosedale Cemetery.

Leave Your Tribute Message

April 26, 2015

I recently found out that Jake has passed on to glory. I remember camping at Conference Grounds, and how our families connected, especially my parents, Henry and Anna Schripsema, who traveled with Jake and Esther many times. Our deepest sympathy to all of you and may your feel God's presence in the days to come. Joanne Schripsema Hulst

- Joanne Hulst

April 24, 2015

As friends of the Lucas family, we want to say how proud we are of all of you, and it all started with the Godly head of your home, Jacob. He not only impacted his children for generations, but those he and your mother cared for through foster care. I was very impressed to read that. We count it a privilege to have known Mr. Lucas and especially appreciate his service to our country. It didn't end there. He had a servant's heart in missions and the business world, too. What a beautiful, Christian life! Our hearts go out to all of you as we pray for God's comfort. - Steve and Sandra Vander Molen

- Steve and Sandra Vander Molen

April 22, 2015

The world has lost a wonderful man, but heaven has gained a generous servant. praying for all of the family.

- Jeff and Cheryl Shoup

April 21, 2015

As a staff member at Calvin College, I want to acknowledge the work that Mr. Lucas did to assist with one of our off-campus housing programs called "Project Neighborhood." He assisted with remodeling work in two of the homes that make up the program, include the Peniel House, owned by Eastern Avenue CRC. For all his work in support of Eastern and this special Christian community program at Calvin, we are so grateful. Praise God for Mr. Lucas' gifts and abilities used in His kingdom.

- John Witte

April 21, 2015

A man I am honored to have known. He was such a role model for me. His walk with God is so inspiring to all. May God enfold the entire family.

- Norma Drayton