Joseph P. Lukus

Joseph P. Lukus, 60, of Newton Twp., died Friday afternoon at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston after a heroic battle with cancer. He was the husband of the former Marianne Elisabeth Valentine.

Born April 8, 1950, in Wilkes-Barre, son of the late Joseph and Veronica Lukus, he was a member of Our Lady of the Snows Church and was employed by MetLife from 1972 to 2009 as a computer programmer. He was a graduate of Pittston Area High School, class of 1968, and served in the Army Reserves with the 365th Engineers. Joe was a loving father, husband and uncle who lived every day saying, "happy endings bring bright beginnings." He had a strong passion for traveling with his wife by his side. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed going on golfing trips with his brother, Mike, and friends. He also enjoyed watching golf with his two cats, Jake and Bunny. However, more than anything, he enjoyed spending time with his two sons. Whether it was fixing a car with his son, Joe, or teaching his son, Michael, how to golf, he never lost patience or his smile. That smile will live on forever and ever in the hearts of all who knew him. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff at Brigham and Women's Hospital.

Also surviving are two sons, Joseph Norbert and Michael Joseph, both at home; a brother, Michael Lukus and wife, Teresea, Clarks Summit; mother-in-law, Anna Valentine, Clifford; three sisters-in-law, Marlies Gregory and Linda Andzulis, both of Clifford; and Karen Valentine, Phoenix; many nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Snows Church, 301 S. State St., Clarks Summit. Interment will follow at Our Mother of Sorrows Cemetery, Finch Hill. Those attending the funeral are asked to go directly to church.

Friends may call Thursday, 4 to 7 p.m., at the Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home, 418 S. State St., Clarks Summit. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.lawrenceeyoungfuneral home.com. In lieu of flowers, send donations to the Brigham and Women's Hospital International Mesothelioma Program. You can donate online at www.impmeso.org or mail donations to Brigham and Women's Hospital, Development Office, 116 Huntington Ave., 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02116. Indicate donation for International Mesothelioma Program.