Joel F. Lucia

Joel F. Lucia, 86, of Concord Twp., passed away August 7, 2024 at the David Simpson Hospice House, Cleveland. He was born May 22, 1938 in Vesta #6, Pennsylvania, to the late Frank and Eileen Lucia. Joel began studies at Kent State University in 1958, graduating in 1962. He served in the United States Army as a Medic from 1963-1964, Joel attended graduate school at the University of Hawaii from 1967 to 1968, where he earned a Master’s of Public Health and a Master’s of Science. Following Graduate School he was recalled to the Army and proudly served as an Army Medic from 1968-1969. He began work in Public Health with the Lake County General Health District in 1971. In 1980 he became Health Commissioner, serving for nearly 30 years. Following retirement he became the Chairman of the Board and President of three non-profit agencies, including Home Care of Lake County, Around the Clock Home Care and the Prescription Assistance Program of Ohio. His hobbies included boating, downhill skiing, and going to the wine country with friends. He finished everything on his bucket list, including being a certified SCUBA diver, sky diving, gliding, white water rafting and visiting Europe, South America, Vietnam, Thailand, China and South Korea. Joel also made many friends at the Fairport Hungarian Club, Kirtland Kiwanis, where he served as President and Lieutenant Governor, and was a member of the Goodtimers Social Club since 1971, where he made lifetime friends. He was married to a wonderful woman, his wife of 36 years, Roberta Lucia; daughter, Dawn (Tom) Nickerson, who kept her father on his toes; step-children, Bonnie, Barbara, Brenda and Robert (Delores) Blansett; step-grandchildren, Bayley Brown and AJ Timpa; sister, Anita (Rick) Skirvin; nephews, and many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Bonnie Lucia and Newana Zlamal. Per his wishes there will not be a funeral. At a later date a burial will be held with a private ceremony, at Concord Twp., Cemetery, followed by a celebration of life, with friends. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution to a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, Ohio 44060. Offer condolences at www.brunners.com

Joel F. Lucia

May 22, 1938 - August 7, 2024