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Lucas, David Charles – Passed away peacefully at Ross Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the age of 92. He was the cherished husband of the late Mona Lucas (née Legault), with whom he shared 67 wonderful years of marriage.
At the age of 19, after completing his 1951–1952 season with the Lindsay Kin’s Junior B, Dave made the bold decision to leave his hometown of Downeyville and move to Manhattan, New York, to pursue his dream of playing professional hockey. He began his career with the Troy Bruins in 1951, marking the beginning of a long and successful journey in the sport. In 1952, Dave joined the Washington Lions, and by 1954, he was welcomed by the Johnstown Jets, where he would spend a significant portion of his career.
In 1962, Dave achieved one of his proudest moments when he made his debut with the Detroit Red Wings in the National Hockey League. After a brief stint with the Red Wings, Dave played three games for the Pittsburgh Hornets in 1963 before joining the Portland Buckaroos. His career continued to evolve, and in 1965–1966, Dave returned to the Johnstown Jets in a player-coach role. From 1967 to 1969, Dave moved to Virginia, where he became the head coach of the Salem Rebels. The local papers fondly referred to him as “Eastern Hockey Leauge #1 Veteran,” a testament to his leadership and experience.
Dave’s professional career, which spanned from 1951 to 1969, was marked by his skill, dedication, and passion for the game. After retiring from playing, Dave transitioned into scouting, working for the Pittsburgh Penguins, the NHL Central Scouting Bureau, and the Chicago Blackhawks.
In 1988, after selling their farm in Downeyville, which Mona had managed, Dave and Mona settled in Lindsay. In retirement, Dave enjoyed golfing and treasured many years of traveling to Tampa, Florida, with Mona. In 1997, Dave’s exceptional career as a professional hockey player and his lasting contributions to the sport were honored with his induction into the Lindsay Sports Hall of Fame.
Dave was the dear brother of the late Mildred O’Neill (Fergus), Vera Morrissey (Dave), Rachel Oliver (Jim), Caroline Wylie (Bob), Dorothy Herlihey (Tom), Clement Lucas (Margaret), Austin Lucas, and Noel Lucas. He was also a beloved brother-in-law to the late Léône Skipworth (Paul), Jeannine Butler (the late John), and Trèva Cousineau (André).
Dave will be lovingly remembered by Wylene Lucas, Kim Emken, and many other nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, Downeyville, on Monday, January 20th at 11:00am. If desired, a memorial donation may be made to St. Luke’s Catholic Church Restoration Fund, or St. Mary’s Catholic Church Restoration Fund, which would be appreciate by the family.
Wednesday January 15th 2025
Death notice for the town of: Lindsay, Province: Ontario
death notice David Charles Lucas Wednesday January 15th 2025
obituaries notice David Charles Lucas Wednesday January 15th 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of David Charles Lucas Wednesday January 15th 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.