ST. LOUIS COUNTY – Elmer Luckett, a local World War II veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor, has died. His family said he was 97 years-old.
Luckett was a man known for liking things his way. To that end, he was laid to rest Tuesday in his choice spot inside Lakewood Park Cemetery in Affton.
“He always said, ‘It was up on a hill. I like the view.’ And I always said, ‘Dad, I don't think it's going to matter that much.’ And he said, ‘Aww it matters,’” said Elmer Luckett’s son, Richard.
Luckett was a family man and proud American. He enlisted in the Navy when he was 20 and was stationed in the island paradise of Hawaii.
“He was decent, a great role model. Both my brother and I were very fortunate we had him for such a long time,” said Richard Luckett.
His detailed recollection of his service days was one of the most remarkable things about Elmer Luckett. His family says despite his age, his mind was sharp and clear as ever.
“All the way to the end he could tell you exactly where he was on Dec. 7, 1941. And it was fairly amazing. I hope those genes carried,” Richard Luckett said with a chuckle.
The end came March second when Luckett passed peacefully in his sleep.
Sent off Tuesday with military honors and surrounded by loved ones, Elmer Luckett is a man whose legacy will live on. And whose life and service Richard Luckett says will be cherished for generations.
“We lose people, but we don't lose the memories.”
