David Joseph Lutz (also known Grandpa Dave) was born June 25th, 1934 in Olpe, Kansas to Andrew F. Lutz and Alice (Rossillon) Lutz. He is survived by two sisters, twins, Janice Mahonney of W. Bath, ME and Doris Meier, of Topeka KS. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Sister Geneva Lutz OSF and Lila Mullican of Indiana and grandson Andrew J. Mautz.
He was born on the farm West of Olpe KS. After graduation from Olpe Rural High, He attended Emporia State University and studied Industrial Arts and Engineering. He continued his studies in electronics in Biloxi, MS after enlisting in the United States Air Force. He was a member of the 85th Bomber Squadron and attained the level of Staff Sergeant. He was sent to Sculthorpe, England to work on Jet Bomber aircraft radar systems during the Korean War and traveled extensively throughout Europe.
He married Rose Marie Hagemann(Divorced) of Olpe, KS in December of 1959. He is survived by his five 5 children. Carmen Hicks (Jeff) of Argyle Texas, Kathy Lock (Duane) of Southlake Texas, Lorrie Neisler (Bobby)(Deceased) of Double Oak, Texas. Debbie Carlson (Skip) of Lawrence, KS, Darin Lutz (Cindy) of Lawrence KS and 12 grandchildren.
Dave spent a majority of his working career in the film industry as a Motion Picture Sound Engineer for Centron Corporation. His work as a Sound Engineer allowed him to travel extensively recording sound for many educational films, documentaries, and commercials. He fondly spoke of one of his favorite work endeavors, traveling with the film crew following presidential nominee, Bob Dole on his 1996 campaign trail. He was also proud of his involvement with the short documentary film and nominated academy award film, the Leo Beauerman Story.
Following his work at Centron Corporation he was employed by the University of Kansas for the Kansas Bureau of Child Research which is now Life Span Institute. He did freelance sound recording for some time after retiring in 1997.
During his life Dave spent many hours pursuing his many interests and hobbies. He was an accomplished mechanic and restored many classic cars himself. He competed in car shows around the state and won many awards. He was especially fond of his 1968 red convertible Pontiac Fire Bird. He was an avid photographer and was the family historian, always present to get beautiful photos of all significant events in the family.
The family will greet friends and family for a visitation from 5:00 to 6:00 pm, Monday June 26th at Rumsey-Yost funeral home 601 Indiana St. Lawrence, KS.
A Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at 10:30 am at Corpus Christie Catholic Church, 6001 Bob Billings Pkwy, Lawrence, KS. Family and friends may gather at 10:00 am for a short visitation before the service. He will be laid to rest at the Oak Hill cemetery immediately following the service.
Flowers are welcome and the family suggests memorial Contributions to the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.
The Mass will be live streamed at, cccparish.org, go to Livestream Liturgies or https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC83LO5u3AOxZCDRB6sRaPTA/videos .
Online condolences may be sent at rumsey-yost.com.
My first job was at Centron. I will treasure my memories of Dave. Condolences to the family.
I was sorry to hear about Dave’s passing. My condolences to your family. He was such a fixture in the neighborhood. I have good memories of his time on Sharon Dr. and the advice he would give. Thinking of you all. Mary- his neighbor across the street.
I have thought about David many times since I last saw him. When I think of him I can’t help but think also of his young family in the late 60’s in Bettendorf, Ia. I am now looking at the photos I have of our young families. Such good memories. David was instrumental in getting me employment with GE computers. I will never forget that. We worked together for several years repairing computers. We traveled together from site to site, having a Sandy’s burger and shake for lunch. David was very intelligent and I learned a lot from him. I remember the day he and I sat on the banks of the Mississippi and watched them position the last piece of the I-80 bridge. There are lots of good memories. I would like to be there at this time but will watch the services on the internet. My condolences to all your families. I know he will be greatly missed. Jim Wadle and Shirley(deceased 2013)
Grandpa Dave as known by so many always had a kind spirit and an interest in others. I pray that he is enjoying a piece of pie in heaven with my Mom. Love, The Krannawitters
Rest In Peace Dave! You will be missed!
We all love your Father and Grandpa – he will always be ‘Grandpa Dave’ to all of our family. He was soooo proud of you all – especially his Grandchildren. We will always keep fond memories of him close in our hearts and remember his huge smile. Love to you all – John, Lindsey, Matthew and Ryan.
I will always remember Dave for making my seven years in Kansas awesome and memorable. I will miss you. My deepest condolences for the entire family. Peter from Hungary.
Thinking of Lutz family as we are saddened to hear of your loss. Dave and family were our neighbors as our children were growing up. So many great memories of him and also his pretty red car. He was such a kind and gentle man, we think of him often. So sorry for your loss.
Rest well Dave. Condolences to the family. Dave and my Father worked side by side for years at Centron and then Dave came over to Dad’s film lab at BCR KU. Too many projects to list, helping so many in Child Research. Dave remains a good man dedicated to his family and craft. Now you and Dad can finally enjoy that infamous bottle of wine.
It is fitting that Dave passed from this life to heaven on Father’s Day. He was a good father and father figure to many, and a good friend to numerous others, among whom we are happy to be counted. Heaven is our next rendezvous!
Jerry and Kathryn Denning
To: The Lutz Family
In 2Corinthians 5:8 it states “ to be absent from the body is to be with the Lord”. May God bless you and your family and bring you peace, comfort and love during this time of sorrow.
Dr. James and Mrs. Vickie Lock