Dr. Robert Daniel “Dan” Luckett, Sr., formerly Muddy

Dr. Robert Daniel “Dan” Luckett, Sr. died on January 3, 2022 at the age of 82 in Ocala, Florida. It was his 82nd birthday. He was injured as a result of a fall in November and was working on rehabilitation so he and his wife Judy could move in with their family in Vancouver, Washington. Despite the challenges he faced, he was enthusiastically looking forward to starting the next chapter of her life.

Dan has always been proud of his beginnings in Muddy, Illinois and where he and his brother had come in life. Although they have changed over the years, he has always pursued his hobbies with passion and energy. A high school, college, and Army basketball star, Dan’s life’s journey has included horseback riding, sailing, RV driving, softball, and karaoke.

Dan met the love of his life, Judy, in Robinson, Illinois. They married in 1961 and immediately went to Japan, where he served in the army until 1963. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana State, a master’s degree from Northern Illinois, and his doctorate from Montana State University.

Dan has worked as a basketball coach, middle school teacher, assistant principal, principal, and principal throughout his career. He has always been passionate about learning and doing whatever it takes to be the best in his career.

Dan always had a great sense of humor when it was at his expense, and he told jokes and funny stories his whole life. Those closest to him knew what it meant to be “unobtrusive.”

Dan is survived by his wife Judy, son Dan Jr., three granddaughters Michelle Dawson, Lindsey Luckett and River Luckett, and five great-grandchildren Isabell, Abigail, Atticus, Crosby and Margot. His father Lawrence, mother Mildred, older brother Larry, and younger sister Pat preceded him in death.

Dan wanted to be cremated and buried with his wife in Illinois after her death. There are no services at this time.