William Charles “Bill,” Luka, age 71, born in Great Lakes, Illinois, and a resident of Fairhope, Alabama, for 33 years, passed away Tues., Jun. 25, 2024.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Virginia France Luka, and one brother. Bill graduated from Auburn University where he played football, was a member of the 1972 Amazin’s team, and once appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. While at Auburn, Bill joined Fellowship of Christian Athletes and devoted the rest of his life to the servanthood of Jesus. He held a lifelong career as a CPA and served as an officer in the church for many years. Above all, he was a devoted, selfless husband and father and faithful servant of Jesus Christ our Lord. He is remembered well by all who know him.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Susan Ryals Luka; son, Lieutenant Colonel Will Luka (Kathryn); daughter, Sarah Luka LaSource (Jason); daughter, Allison Luka Eckman (Wade); five grandchildren, Claire Luka, James Luka, Luke Eckman, Emma Grace Eckman, and Kate LaSource; sister, Pam Dorfman (David); sister, Ann Hamiter (George); sister, Cathy Hawthorne; nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any memorial contributions be made to Shepherd’s Place Respite, where Bill spent many good days in his last years. The family would also like to recognize the exceptional care provided to Bill by The Servant’s Hand, St. Joseph Hospice, and faithful friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 2, 2024, at 11 a.m. in the chapel at Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home in Fairhope.
