Cathleen Kay Lukens

Cathleen “Cathie” Kay (Newcomb) Lukens, 72, of rural Rochester Fulton County, Indiana, passed away on February 27, 2026 at her residence surrounded by the family she loved so deeply. She was born on October 15, 1953, in Rochester, Indiana, the firstborn child of Edwin and Janice (Durkes) Newcomb. On December 3, 1972, she married Lincoln D. Lukens, beginning more than fifty-three years of devoted marriage. Together they built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and family. Their marriage was filled with adventure—traveling to Georgia and Oklahoma for national swine shows, enjoying yearly trips south where Cathie loved to read and relax, and celebrating their 25th anniversary with a memorable trip to Paris. Cathie was the beloved mother of three children: Jennifer Lukens, Micah Lukens (wife Valerie), and Augustus (Gus) Lukens (wife Tiffany). She was the proud grandmother of five—Rebekah (Becky) Cave (husband Wade), Jonas Lukens, Asa Lukens, Selah Lukens, and Holden Lukens—and the cherished great grandmother of Chance Cave and Payton Cave. Her family was her greatest joy, and she never missed an opportunity to cheer them on, celebrate their accomplishments, or push them toward their dreams. She believed fiercely in the power of education and encouraged all three of her children to pursue not only college degrees but master’s degrees as well. Surviving are her husband Lincoln; children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, mother, Janice Newcomb; and siblings Laura Newcomb Titus (husband Bill), Kent Newcomb, and Scott Newcomb (wife Bev). She was preceded in death by her father, Edwin. Cathie was a woman of strong faith and raised her children to believe in our Savior Jesus Christ. She attended the Akron United Methodist Church, Olive Bethel Church of God and Bethlehem Baptist Churches throughout her adult life. Cathie lived a life of service—to her family, her community, and the organizations she cared about. She was a longtime member of the Order Eastern Star and spent more than 25 years as a dedicated 4H leader for the Henry Hardy Farmers 4H Club, shaping the lives of countless young people. She coached both the Kittens and Rays softball teams, leading them to two undefeated seasons in little league play. She served as a mentor to students at Mentone Elementary School. Cathie was a member of the Manitou Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, who she had ties through from her Grandmother Donna Newcomb. She was also a key member of the Fulton County Pork Producers and helped found the Fulton County Riley Children’s Hospital Assistance Fund, a cause close to her heart. Her work ethic was evident from a young age. She began her first job at the town bookstore while still in high school, later choosing to stay home to raise her children on the family farm. Once they were older, she worked at Akron Elementary School before spending 22 years as a valued member of the team at Midwest Spring and Manufacturing. Alongside her professional work, she embraced the many responsibilities of a farm wife—roles she carried with strength, and unwavering commitment. In the later years of her marriage, Cathie became the devoted caregiver to her husband after his stroke, offering him steadfast love and support. Her resilience, compassion, and quiet determination were evident to all who knew her. Cathie loved sports with unmatched enthusiasm that was passed down from her father. Cathie loved playing and board games and was especially competitive in euchre. She filled out March Madness brackets with excitement, cheered passionately for Purdue basketball and rooted for the Chicago Bears. As a child she went with her family to see the Chicago Cubs and one of her greatest joys was when the Cubs won the World Series. But her favorite athletes were always her children and grandchildren, whose games she attended faithfully. Cathie’s life was defined by generosity, loyalty, and love. She touched countless lives through her leadership, mentorship, and friendship. Her legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the many people she encouraged, supported, and believed in. The funeral service will take place at 6:00 pm, Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana with Pastor Thomas Craig officiating. A private interment will take place in the Nichols Cemetery, Akron, Indiana. Visitation hours will be held from 2 pm to 6 pm, Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, Indiana. Memorial contributions can be made in her memory to the Fulton County Riley Children’s Hospital Assistance Fund at the Fulton County Community Foundation.

Cathleen Kay Lukens

October 15, 1953 - February 27, 2026