Paul Walter Luke, 88, of Dillsboro passed away Monday, July 18, 2022 at Ripley Crossing in Milan with his loving family by his side. Paul was born on Sunday, October 22, 1933 in Dearborn County; son of Walter and Ruth (Niederbaumer) Luke. Paul married the love of his life, Elsie Burlage, on May 24, 1958. Paul proudly served our country in the United States Army. He was a passionate farmer and loved every minute of farming. Paul was a lifetime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, a licensed auctioneer, member of the Southeastern Indiana Farm Club, Ripley County 4-H Leader, Farm Bureau member, founding member of the Hoosier Hills Water Company, and served on numerous organizations within Ripley County. He enjoyed collecting antique tractors, farming, woodworking, and square dancing, but his greatest passion in life was spending time with his family.
Paul will be missed by his wife of 64 years, Elsie Luke of Dillsboro; daughter Mary Schmaltz (Chris) of Milan; brothers Ralph Luke (Judy) and Richard Luke (Bobbie) all of Dillsboro; sister-in-law Annis Luke of Dillsboro; and grandchildren Eric Schmaltz and Emily Schmaltz Bowles (Tyler).
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Ruth Luke, sister Verna Kersey, and brother Art Luke.
Family and friends may gather in remembering Paul from 10:00am – 12:00pm Saturday, July 23, 2022 at the Laws-Carr-Moore Funeral Home in Milan. A service will immediately follow at 12:00pm with Pastor Jared Tucher officiating. Burial will take place in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Farmers Retreat, Indiana. Memorials may be given in honor of Paul to St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery or the donor’s choice.
Laws-Carr-Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements, 707 S Main Street, Box 243, Milan, IN 47031, (812)654-2141. Please visit our website at www.lawscarrmoore.com to share your condolences and memories of Paul.