Dr. James Luke Obituary

Dr. James Edward Luke, age 81, passed away peacefully with family in Corry, PA on Sunday, August 17, 2025. Jim was born in Bradford, PA on June 18, 1944 to Robert John Luke and Dorothy Irene Layfield. After graduating from St. Bernard Catholic School, he achieved a B.S., M.S., and then a Ph.D. in entomology from Penn State University. He worked for Ciba-Giegy conducting research on various agricultural products while farming grapes as a hobby. In 1977, he made the full transition to farming, starting Luke Farms, in Dundee, New York. Luke Farms produced three different grape varieties along with blueberries, peaches, cherries, raspberries, and corn. Jim went on to operate several businesses including an Agriculture Research Company, A.C.D.S., in Phelps, NY; and the Gold and Silver Exchange in Canandaigua, NY.

At various points throughout his career, he taught math, science and small engine repair. He was a principal for both St. Mary's Elementary School in Potsdam, NY and Morristown Central School in Morristown, NY. He finished his career working for the State of New York at the Social Services Office in Penn Yan, retiring in 2011.

Jim was an avid hunter, fisherman, biologist, woodworker, and conservationist. He taught hunter safety education for over 40 years and was passionate about educating children. He belonged to the Himrod Field and Stream Conservation Club, the Penn Yan Moose Club, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and was a life-time NRA member.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Marilyn J. Nielsen, an infant daughter Catherine, and a brother Robert Alexander. He is survived by his daughters: Elizabeth Ann (Curt) Meeder and grandsons Henry and Daniel; Christina Irene (Christopher) Brink and grandson Christopher Connor; Victoria Marie (Kyle) Boehmer and grandsons James, Alexander, and John. He is also survived by a brother Raymond John (Catherine) Luke; a son, David (Joyce) Neely with granddaughter Brenda (Tim) Houk and great-granddaughters Emilee and Abigail; and a significant friend Cartha Conklin.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, August 22, 2025 from 2pm to 4pm at Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee, NY. A private inurnment will be held at Hillside Cemetery, Dundee, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Himrod Conservation Club 770 Rice Hill Rd., Himrod, NY 14842.

Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.