With great sadness, the family of David J. Lutsic, 81, of Johnson City, announces his passing on July 28, 2022. Our loss is profound; our words may not adequately describe him or the quiet impact he had on so many people. The man we all knew as Dave, Dad or Pop was above all else a loyal family man. His love for his children and grandchildren could only be eclipsed by his amazing love for his wife Jan, with whom he celebrated 56 years of marriage in June. Dave enjoyed the great outdoors - hunting, fishing, taking Jan to explore the Rocky Mountains, weekends at the cottage, and annual trips to Daytona Beach with family and friends.
In everything he did - with his family, in sports as a teammate, in business as a leader, or in the community as a coach, Dave gave it his all. His work ethic was unparalleled. He never forgot his simple beginnings and remained very humble no matter his accomplishments. He treated everyone with genuine respect and took sincere interest in each person. While Pop was a man of few words, those he used were powerful, sometimes colorful, and always relied upon. He was a confidant to many, always willing to support someone through difficult times or encourage them toward success. He never sought attention or credit. While Pop was larger than life to all who knew him, he likewise provided stability – in his presence you felt comfort and courage.
Dave led by example and taught valuable life lessons just by being himself…Live a virtuous life. Be humble. Help others to succeed. Never compromise your values or your integrity. Work hard and never give up. Take pride in the effort as well as the result. Don't be afraid to get a little dirty (or a lot). When life gets tough, suck it up. Always try, you learn from your mistakes. Never forget where you came from. People matter. Be selfless and put others ahead of yourself. Be patient, the best things in life are worth waiting for. Family first. Love is unconditional. The measure of a man comes from within. Run hard through the finish line.
As grateful as we are to have had Pop in our lives for as long as we did, there is never enough time. We know he will live forever in our hearts. Our wish is that he continues to have an impact as we carry forward who he was and who he taught us to be.
Dave is survived by his wife, Janice; daughter Davi-Lin Matuszak (Brian), son Richard Dino (Jenna), daughter Dana Pasquale (Lenny), daughter Danielle Testani (Rick). Grandchildren Zach Matuszak, Marika Somich (Frank), Livia Matuszak, Jaiden Dino, Cade Dino, Sami Testani. Brothers Michael (Barbara) and sons Thomas and Peter; Jimmy; Richard (Becky) and children, Kim, Terry, Christopher and Nathaniel; and John.
The family will receive friends and family at Chopyak-Scheider Funeral Home on 326 Prospect Street, Binghamton, NY on Monday, August 1, 2022 from 4–7pm. Please feel free to mask if you so choose. A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dave's name to Mercy House of the Southern Tier, 212 North McKinley Avenue, Endicott NY 13760. https://mercyhousesoutherntier.com/donate.html
Kindly share your reflections of Dave on his guestbook at CHOPYAK-SCHEIDER.COM.