Obituary of Paul Michael Lucas

South Plainfield - Paul Michael Lucas, 82, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning at home. Born to the late John and Anna Lucas in Pittston, PA, Paul graduated from Pittston Area High School and enlisted with the United States Army and served as a Medic and Paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne. While stationed in North Carolina, he met his future wife of 56 years and country girl, the late Mary Maxine Wishon. They resided in various Central Jersey towns before settling to South Plainfield over 50 years ago to raise their two children. After his honorable discharge in 1952, Paul worked in a Steel Mill for a few years then the Post Office where he made five cents more an hour. He later worked for VA New Jersey Hospital as a X-Ray Technician. He finally joined the Newark Police Department, while enrolled in Trenton State College where he received his Bachelor's Degree. After 33 years of dedicated service he retired as a lieutenant. After retirement, Paul and Mary shared a residence in South Plainfield and North Carolina. Predeceased by Mary Maxine and 4 siblings, surviving are his two children; Michael Lucas and Paula Lucas and three dear grandchildren; Gabriella, Benjamim and Frankie B. Funeral services will begin on Tuesday June 24, 2014 at 10AM in the McCriskin - Gustafson Home For Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Ave., South Plainfield NJ 07080. Entombment will follow in St. Gertrude's Cemetery Mausoleum, Colonia. Family and friends may attend visitation on Monday, June 23, 2014 from 4-8PM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice that will assist with Stroke or Cancer Research.