Lucas Joseph Vellanti

Lucas Joseph Vellanti, born on January 5, 1976, in Lansing, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and family on January 24, 2026, in Grand Ledge, Michigan. Lucas, affectionately known as "Luke" to his friends and family, was a dedicated appliance repair technician at G & W Maytag for over 30 years, where his expertise and problem-solving skills made him a valued member of the team. He is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Heather Vellanti; his father, Joseph Vellanti; brother Matthew Cramer (Sabrina "Bree"); sister Elizabeth Vellanti; aunt Cathy Many (Jack); many cousins including Kyle Allen (Jami), a nephew and many nieces. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, mother Claudia "Anne" Vellanti, uncle Nicholas Vellanti (JoAnn), and aunt Bette Barberio (Fred). Luke embraced life with passion and enthusiasm, finding joy in the simple pleasures. He was known for his incredible talent in slow-smoking brisket, a skill he loved to share with family and friends during gatherings. He'd stay up for hours on end tending to the smoker making sure the brisket would be juicy and tender. Whether it was fishing out back, shooting skeet with the guys, or whipping up new recipes with Heather, Luke cherished every moment spent with loved ones. His love of nature and the simpler things led him and Heather to memorable camping trips up north, to the Mammoth Cave area and to stays at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where they enjoyed nature's beauty and tranquility. A lasting memory they shared was an escape to a cabin in Hocking Hills, Ohio, where they hiked nature trails discovering waterfalls and simply basking in the beauty of the area. Lucas' warmth, humor, and love for his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of kindness and creativity will live on in the hearts of those he cherished. A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, January 31 from 1-3 p.m. at Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, 406 N. Bridge St., Grand Ledge, MI. Donations may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48906 (https://bit.ly/4lTktE9), in his honor. Share your memories and condolences online at holihanatkin.com

Lucas Joseph Vellanti

January 5, 1976 - January 24, 2026