Robert Lucent

The Rev. Robert Brian Lucent, LtCdr (R) was born on November 3, 1927 in Paterson, New Jersey. He passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his family in his home in Escondido, California, at the age of 92 on December 3, 2019. Father Bob attended Seabury Western Seminary and was ordained as a priest in 1952, also the year he married his bride, Moina Ware. He began as a mission priest to the Lakota Indians, serving on two Indian reservations; one in Rapid City and one in Louisiana, until he was commissioned as a chaplain in the Navy in 1962. There were few things he loved more than his time working with the Marines, where he was named base Marine Officer of the Year. He was stationed with the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton and the Navy Training Center until 1965, after which he and Moina returned to the Midwest, where he spent the next ten years in urban Indian ministry. In 1975, he was called as rector of the Church of the Holy Family in Fresno where he served for 16 years. He retired in 1992, and he and Moina, and their youngest son Nick relocated to Escondido, California.

Bob continued to dedicate his time in the church, preaching at Trinity Episcopal Church in Escondido when needed. He also volunteered his weekends cleaning, repairing, and rebuilding the church, and the surrounding facilities. Although he and Moina never had biological children of their own, he was a true role model to many and touched the lives of those he encountered. He and Moina fostered many children throughout the years, and adopted Phillip, Mike, and Nick. He was a selfless inspiration to all those he happened upon, opening his heart and his home to anyone in need. He was an expert back-packer, trekking with the church youth groups until well into his 70’s. Bob loved nature and animals as much as he loved his family and friends. Father Bob is survived by his wife of 67 years, Moina, and their two adopted sons, Michael (Noi) and Nick (Tram) Lucent, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by Phillip. He will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.

Family, friends, and all are invited to join in honoring and celebrating the life of Father Bob on December 20, 2019 at 2:00 pm at Trinity Episcopal Church, 845 Chestnut Street, Escondido, CA 92025.  The Reverend Meg Decker will officiate. Flowers and condolences may be offered at Trinity Church.

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