He was born on November 2, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, the beloved son of the late Rudolph and Beatrice Lukens.
William proudly attended Michigan State University where he obtained his Bachelor's of Political Science and Social Science. He was also a former National Guard Reservist and an amazing lifelong advocate for the American Red Cross. His professional life included working for the Michigan Department of Management and Budget, working closely with Governor William Milliken’s campaign, and serving as State Relations Representative for the American Red Cross Michigan Chapter from 1999 to 2020. Most recently, he owned and operated Capital City Associates from 1988 to 2020.
William shared 34 wonderful years with his devoted husband, George Allen Pavick. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure. They especially cherished their time sailing Lake Michigan in a sailboat they refurbished together and their annual winter trips to Costa Rica — a tradition they happily maintained for 18 years. Before meeting George, William bravely sailed solo across Lake Michigan, a testament to his love for the great outdoors.
William found peace and happiness at the Lukens family cottage nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, where he enjoyed two-tracking in the family Jeep, listening to jazz and classical music, and simply being surrounded by nature and close friends.
William is survived by his husband, George Allen Pavick; his sister, Linda S. (late husband, Abdelbary) Bougary; cousins, Mary Kleidon and Karl (Linda) Lukens; four nieces; two nephews; and extended family including sisters-in-law, Patricia Russell, Susan (Gary) Goddard, and Joanne (Shane) Soroka; and brother-in-law, James "Jim" (Annette) Pavick. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Beatrice Lukens; and father-in-law, Frank (Hilda) Pavick.
A memorial celebration of William's life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Chapel, 1730 E Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI 48823.
In lieu of flowers, donations in William’s memory may be made to the American Red Cross Michigan Chapter; Hospice of Lansing; or WKAR NPR — organizations that reflect the values and causes William held so dear.
