Kenneth A. Luce

Kenneth A. Luce, 82, of Mansfield, passed away peacefully at home on August 18, 2021 surrounded by his family.

He was born in Ashtabula on April 15, 1939. Ken graduated from Jefferson High School and received his undergraduate degree in secondary education from Mount Union College. He received his Master’s degree from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Ken was married to Carole (Stoffer) Luce on August 13, 1966 and was happy to celebrate his 55th wedding anniversary during the final week of his life.

He is survived by his wife Carole, his three children Jeffrey Luce (Linda), Cynthia Luce, and Robert Luce (Rebecca), along with his six grandchildren: Megan (Collin) Bell, Cassandra Luce, Lydia and Chloe Miller, Vivien and Daniel Luce as well as Ken’s sister Sharon (Larry) Hardgrove.

Ken spent 29 years as a PE and science teacher at Maple Heights and Bedford High Schools, where he taught Biology and Physics while serving as the Science Department Chair. His coaching career was highlighted by leading the Varsity Boys’ Basketball team at Bedford for 9 years as well as being a long-time member of the track coaching staff, including the Bearcats’ 2003 state title season.

Ken was an active member in the Mansfield Optimist Club, and participated for several years as an OHSAA track official and a marshal at the Memorial Golf Tournament. He also served as an adult Sunday school teacher for many years at Paradise Hill UMC in Ashland.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 this Sunday, August 22 at Paradise Hill UMC. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of North Central Ohio or The Mansfield Noon Optimist Club.

Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville assisted the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.fickesfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kenneth A. Luce, please visit our floral store.