Dell W. Lucas, 83, of Granger, passed away at his home Wednesday, April 27, 2011.

Dell was born May 15, 1927 to the late Frank and Vanetta (Harmon) Lucas in Tulsa, Okla. He was one of four children growing up in the Lucas household.

After graduating high school, Dell served in the United States Navy during World War II attached to the USS Saratoga (CV3 Program) and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from North Texas State University.

Dell enjoyed a successful career as a human resources executive for eight charter hospitals in north/central Indiana and as a career counselor at Notre Dame.

On Nov. 22, 1986 Dell wed the love of his life, Jeri Walgren, at a ceremony in St. Joseph County, Ind.

Dell and his wife were long-time members of the First Presbyterian Church in Niles. In his free time, Dell loved spending time on his boat and enjoying the Lake Michigan waters in New Buffalo. When he wasn’t out boating, Dell could be found touring classic car shows in the area.

He is preceded in death by his parents; infant son; son, John Lucas in 2007; brother,  John Lucas; and sister, Bethel Crum.

Dell is survived by his loving wife, Geraldine “Jeri” Lucas; children, Deborah (Roger) Emmons of Wentzville, Mo., Donella (Terry) Kujawa of Niles, Steven (Denise) Walgren of California; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and sister, Vanetta (Jack) Kugler of Guthrie, Okla.

Funeral services to honor Dell’s long life will be held Saturday, April 30 at First Presbyterian Church, 13 South Fourth St. in Niles at 11 a.m. with a time of visitation one hour prior. Pastor Fran Lane-Lawrence will be officiating.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Dell’s name may do so to River Bend Cancer Services, 919 East Jefferson Blvd. Ste. 401, South Bend, IN 46617.

Condolences, photos and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com or on our Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.