Alvina Kathryn Lucht

Obituary Alvina K. Lucht was born the eldest of five children in Worthington, MN, to Francis and Gertrude Steffes. She graduated as valedictorian of her class and married Lester Lucht, her husband of 58 years, in June 1947. Together they raised five children. Their married life began in Fargo, ND, where they briefly owned and operated a small café. In 1952 they moved to live on McNeil Island, WA where Les was hired by the government to operate a boat shuttle between McNeil Island's penitentiary and Steilacoom, WA. Awestruck by the Northwest's beauty and majesty, Les and Al quickly declared it "God's Country." Between promotions and transfers to Leavenworth, Kansas, and Washington, DC, they repeatedly returned and eventually retired to reside in University Place. Alvina graduated with her bachelor's degree in 1978 and upon Les' retirement, began teaching Special Education for Tacoma Public Schools. She was passionate as she taught and motivated her students particularly in the subject of History. Alvina was a dedicated member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church for over 50 year. She was active in serving in their food bank and retirement home ministries. She led Bible Studies in her home, was involved in the Book Club, and was once on the parish council and in the choir. Alvina loved to host pinochle games, loved Seahawk watches, playing bridge and attending plays at Tacoma's Musical Theater where she held season tickets along with her friends. She enjoyed gathering neighbors in her home each year, and was integral in planning annual picnics and lunches for McNeil Island retirees. This year was to mark the 37th Annual Lucht Family Pizza Bake - Off event, during which family and friends from throughout the country would gather at Alivina's house to create and present a pizza that they hoped would win the prestigious and coveted Best Pizza Trophy. Alvina leaves behind 19 grandchildren , 18 great-grandchildren, 3 great great-grandchildren, her sisters Charlotte Wisdorf of Seattle, WA, Geraldine Hartford of Post Falls, ID, Patricia Steffes of Albuquerque, NM and a host of other precious relatives and friends. She truly touched the lives of many. Alvina was preceded in death by her husband, her son Lester, her granddaughter Rachel Lasley, her sister LaVonne Turner, and her brother Francis Steffes. Alvina's Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Tacoma, WA on June 6, 2018 at 11:00 am. Donations may be made to the St. Vincent De Paul Society in Tacoma or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home