Luther "Luke" Key

Luther “Luke” Key passed away peacefully on June 11, 2023, at the age of 89, in Redlands, California.

Luke was born on January 12, 1934, to Sterling and Hattie Key at their home in Lingleville, Texas, and was the second oldest of seven children. Luke grew up on a 176-acre farm, where his family raised cattle, grew their own vegetables, and he and his brothers generally caused mischief (his sisters did not). Although they were of modest means, Luke always reminisced fondly of his childhood and was blessed with a loving family.

Luke enlisted in the Navy at age 18 in 1952 and was honorably discharged after four years of service. His service included assignments on USS Calvert, a troop transport vessel during the Korean War, and Naval Base Guam.

Upon discharge from the Navy, Luke worked various jobs, ultimately entering law enforcement with the Rialto Police Department, where he spent 30 years. Luke also worked security at San Bernardino Community Hospital for 34 years, which is where he met his wife, Carol, a nurse at the hospital. They were married in October 1973 and enjoyed 49 years together.

Luke was a man of few words and was known for his calm demeanor and love of food, Levis blue jeans, and country music. In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening, cooking, and flipping through catalogues and magazines. He was loved by many, including his family and lifelong friends from his time with the Navy and his start with the Rialto Police Department.

Luke is survived by his wife, Carol, daughters Denise and Deanna (Coloe) and son in law Scott, grandchildren Vivienne, Zander, Joe, and Liam, sisters Betty (Rotenberry) and Joyce (Kerley), brothers and sisters in law Chris and Anna Capes, Mike and Sandy Capes, and Debbie Worthington, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Sterling and Hattie Key, brothers, Emanuel “Red”, Wayne, Phil, and Dan Key, and brothers in law Tommy Rotenberry and Clifton Kerley.

A graveside service will be held at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Riverside, California on June 19, 2023 at 1:30pm.