Luke Anthony Gabbert

Luke Anthony Gabbert, 19, of Lewis Center, passed away on February 6, 2016. He was born on October 1, 1996 in Columbus to Randy Gabbert and Lisa (Ochman) Gabbert. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Richard and Virginia Ochman, paternal grandparents Wayne Gabbert and Shirley McCauley, and his chocolate lab Zoe. Luke had a passion for soccer; whenever you think of him, you think of soccer. He began playing for OYAA when he was 4, and moved into club soccer at 8, where he played for the Classics Eagles and Team Ohio FC Cosmos. He played soccer for the Olentangy Orange High School Pioneers where he became a leader and dedicated friend to his teammates, and graduated in 2015. Luke attended Ohio Wesleyan soccer games throughout his entire life, so deciding to attend Ohio Wesleyan was a natural choice. He played soccer at OWU his freshman year and formed a lasting bond with his teammates and coaches. He touched a soccer ball almost every day in some way. From simply shooting or passing the ball with big brother Jacob in the yard, to dribbling and juggling a ball in the house, to training at 100 effort, Luke was driven to succeed. Although soccer was the most important sport to Luke, he also formed friendships through CAHA hockey and baseball. Luke lived every moment of his life to the fullest. He valued time with his family and friends, snowboarding and skiing in Colorado, and listening to music. He was a member of North Church of Lewis Center. During high school, he was involved with Young Life which inspired his spiritual growth, and with Athletes in Action at OWU. Luke's smile and energy permeated the room when he entered. He was compassionate, energetic and a friend to everyone. Luke will be greatly missed by his parents Randy and Lisa; brother Jacob, uncles and aunts Rick (Marlene) Ochman, Tim (Cathy Jenkins) Gabbert, Brenda (Art) Tucker, and Lisa Gabbert; cousins Ryan (Emily) Ochman, Heather (Ali Ziab) Ochman, Courtney Ochman, and Colton and Kyle Gabbert; his dogs Roxy and Sadie; and many other friends and family members. Family and friends will gather on Friday, February 12, 2016 from 3-7pm at Grace Church of Powell, 7600 Liberty Road, Powell. Luke's Celebration of Life will take place at the church on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 11am with Pastor Adam Bradshaw officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Luke's memory to the Luke Gabbert Memorial Fund at any PNC Bank location. Arrangements entrusted to the SCHOEDINGER WORTHINGTON CHAPEL, 6699 North High Street, Worthington.