Henry Lucas “Luke” Els, 44, shuffled off this mortal coil on June 12, 2023, in Austin, TX, to join the cosmos and the stars. He was born on January 26, 1979, in Knoxville, TN, to Judy and Raymond Els.
Lucas was a light-hearted, happy kid growing up, and a loving, gentle person at his core, despite the hardships he endured. He had so much love in his heart and gave it freely to those who were lucky enough to be a part of his tribe. He was filled with wisdom, and often referred to the spiritual teachers when a loved one needed guidance or a piece of advice. He loved nature so powerfully that it became his own personal form of religion. He had a deep connection with animals, and they always seemed to feel just as drawn to him. They trusted him and could see his kind soul.
Luke loved all types of music and could tell you what year an album was recorded, where it was recorded, and often the meaning behind the lyrics, too. He was so much fun to be around, constantly provoking fits of laughter, either with his silly ways or one of his practical jokes.
Lucas was fortunate to live a life full of incredible adventures… to experience fierce, true, deep love with his wife, with whom he’d been since the age of 18… to be surrounded by a family that loved him to his very core, and that he loved back just as hard… to pursue his love of cooking, and use that innate ability to create the most delicious foods and desserts with so much passion for the people he loved.
Luke is survived by his wife, Jill, his brother Dustin, his sister Rebecca, his step-dad Stephen, his step-sister Carrie, and his nieces and nephews – Bianca, Braxton, Sebastian, James, Rainer, Lorelei, and Julien. He was preceded in death by his parents, Judy Czegledi and Raymond Els, and his grandparents Heinz & Josephine Els, and Orville & Pearl McReynolds.
Everybody struggles, but it’s not the struggles in our lives that define us. It’s our choice to do better and grow. Lucas chose to do better and grow, for which his family and loved ones will eternally be so proud. Sometimes, a man who dwells in darkness will cast a wondrous light upon everything about him, and Lucas certainly did.
Family hosted a private Celebration of Life in Lucas’ honor. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Luke’s name to Wildlife Rescue at https://www.wildlife-rescue.org/donate On the donation form, please check the “Tribute Gift” box and enter Lucas’ name before proceeding to fill out the rest of the form.
Rest in peace, Luke. Your family and friends will always remember your loving and gentle spirit, and the joy and laughter you brought to our lives. God is love. Love is family. Family is forever.
