Julius James Lukacs

January 4, 1938 – December 17, 2024

Julius “J.J.” Lukacs, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and steadfast pillar of his community, passed away in December, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and service. Born in New Jersey, J.J. led a life filled with adventure, learning, and giving back.

J.J. attended Rutgers University, where he pursued his passion for engineering and played on the University’s football team. His sharp mind and dedication propelled him into a successful engineering career that took him around the world. Of all the places he visited, Hungary held a special place in his heart. As the country of his family’s heritage, J.J. was often met with warmth and admiration, his last name granting him a sense of honor and connection to his roots.

J.J.’s greatest love and devotion were reserved for his late wife, Maxine. Their marriage was a testament to partnership, resilience, and enduring love. J.J.’s career required them to move several times, from the East Coast to the Midwest, yet through every transition, Maxine was his constant, his rock, and his joy. J.J. often said that his greatest wish was to be reunited with her in heaven, a love story that now continues beyond this life.

At home, J.J. was a devoted father to their three sons. While he was known for his firm but fair approach to parenting, his love for his children was evident. Whether participating in Boy Scout adventures with Matt and Luke or cheering on Aaron's skateboarding passion, he was always an engaged and supportive presence. This devotion extended to his granddaughter, Sophia, his pride and joy, for whom he was a constant source of encouragement, celebration, and laughter.

J.J. dedicated much of his life to helping others. A long-time volunteer at Methodist West Hospital, he formed lasting friendships with nurses, patients, and staff, brightening countless lives with his service and humor. He was also an active member of Valley Church, contributing tirelessly to its many events and initiatives, building a cherished community along the way.

In his quieter moments, J.J. could often be found studying scripture, working through crossword puzzles, or delivering one of his signature dad jokes, which inevitably sparked both laughter and groans from family and friends. His humor, combined with a profound generosity of spirit, defined who he was—a man who put others first and found fulfillment in serving those around him.

Preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his beloved spouse Maxine, J.J. is survived by his three sons, Matt (Anette), Luke, and Aaron (Sherri), and his granddaughter, Sophia, who carries forward his legacy of kindness and dedication.

A celebration of J.J.’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 4, 2024 at Valley Church, 4343 Fuller Road in West Des Moines, a day which also would have been his birthday.

In honor of his love for volunteering, the family requests donations to Valley Church and Joshua Christian Academy, organizations near and dear to his heart, that reflect his passion for service.

J.J. Lukacs will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a man of unwavering faith, compassion, humor, and strength—a life well-lived and a legacy that continues to inspire.

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