Ernest W. Lutz

Ernest passed away peacefully while in the care of Green Acres of Mason, MI. He was predeceased in death by his wife of 68 years, Dorothy J. Lutz. He is survived by sons Michael Lutz (Suzanne) of Ada, MI, Terry Lutz (Nancy) of Williamston, MI, daughter Penny Filonczuk (Mark) of Dansville, MI, and four grandchildren, Jonathan Lutz of Tucson, AZ, Bethany Bingham (Todd) of Salt Lake City, UT, Candace Cichon (David) of Mason, MI and Ariel Filonczuk of Northville Township, MI. Many have known “Ernie” as a WWII B-26 bomber pilot and decorated war hero, a neighbor, American Legion volunteer, parishioner at First Presbyterian Church, Mason, MI, or from “Ernie Lutz Day” in Mason, MI (02/25/2008), but to his family, just Dad or Grampy.

Ernest has been a member of the IBEW for over 75 years working as a Master Electrician & Estimator for many of the Lansing area electrical contractors. He was the last survivor of 9 children born of Nona & Ford Lutz. Three of the “boys” became electricians along with two of their own sons. Ernie was most proud of his military accomplishments for which he received many recognitions including the Distinguished Flying Cross and was given the French Legion of Honor for helping liberate France during WWII flying 65 missions including D-Day. He took most pride in flying over 500 children (between 8 - 11 years of age) “Young Eagles” for their first ever flight experience. For many years (including 2016 at age 94) he flew solo in his private plane, in formation, with others to commemorate D-Day, June 6th. Ernie was inducted into The Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame, April 18, 2015.

A visitation with his family at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 621 S. Jefferson St., Mason, MI is scheduled May 29, 2018 at 5-7PM. A funeral service will be held at the Mason First Presbyterian Church, 131 E. Maple St., Mason, MI, May 30, 2018 at noon with visitation one hour prior. Interment with military honors to follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Mason. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or EAA Chapter 55 (for their Young Eagles program), P.O. Box 443, Mason, MI 48854 in Ernie’s name.