YOUNGSTOWN - George Lutza, 99, of the city's west side, passed away peacefully Sunday evening, January 12, 2025, in the comfort of his home after a long and fulfilling life.

George was born May 23, 1925, in Youngstown, the son of the late George and Mary Pavuk Lutza. A lifelong resident of the area, he was a proud graduate of Chaney High School, Class of 1946. Following his education, he honorably served in the United States Navy during World War II, stationed in the Pacific Asiatic Sea. After his military service, he attended Coyne Electrical School in Chicago in 1947 before returning to Youngstown to begin his professional career.

George dedicated his working years to the manufacturing industry, serving as a machinist with U.S. Steel Ohio Works for 15 years, Youngstown Welding and Engineering for three years, and later at Saw Hill Tubular Products in Sharon for 25 years before retiring in 1988.

A man of deep faith, Mr. Lutza was a lifelong member of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, where he actively participated in numerous parish activities. He served as a cantor, contributed to the church's weekly bingo games, and was a member of the Golden Pillars Senior Citizens Group. Additionally, he was involved with the Bible One Group at Igniting New Life Ministry and was a member of the Greek Catholic Union #164. George also generously volunteered as a bus driver for Byzantine Catholic Central School.

George enjoyed social gatherings and maintained lifelong friendships through his participation in the Chaney High School Class of 1946 Breakfast Group. His work in Pennsylvania also connected him with the Sharpsville High School Class of 1947 breakfast group, where he was warmly welcomed.

In his leisure time, George found joy in golfing and bowling, participating in the GCU #164 bowling league. He also had a passion for dancing and traveling, having explored destinations across the United States and internationally, including the Grand Canyon, Hawaii, Alaska, Florida, Michigan, South Carolina, Yugoslavia, Slovakia, Hungary, and both East and West Germany. A lover of music, he enjoyed listening to jazz and big band tunes. Most importantly, he cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchild.

George is survived by his wife of 72 years, Catherine A. Tranick Lutza, whom he married May 17, 1952; his four children, George Edward (Carol) Lutza of Valencia, CA., Patricia Lutza McFarland (Timothy) of Lansing, MI., Mary Cay Lutza of Gray Court, SC., and David (Michelle) Lutza of Thorsby, AL; two grandchildren, Dillon (Samantha) Lutza and Immanuel (Paige) Feeté; and a great-grandchild, Emmett.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his granddaughter, Trisha Fawn Feeté; and three sisters, Anna Schreader, Marie Toth, and Margaret Phillips.

Family and friends may call from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown, and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. on Monday, January 20, at the funeral home. Funeral services will begin at 10:15 a.m. Monday at the funeral home and continue at St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, 356 S. Belle Vista Ave., at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Mary Parish Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church or to Angels For Animals 4750 West South Range Rd. Canfield, OH 44406 or via https://www.angelsforanimals.org/donations-memorials .