Obituary of Luke Pillarelli

January 10, 1995 - January 5, 2014 Luke James Pillarelli was born in Toledo, Ohio on January 10, 1995. He was the oldest of two children born from the union of Rick and Martha (Williams) Pillarelli. Luke was born with a congenital heart defect and no spleen, and he lived with many challenges. By the age of 3, Luke had already undergone five major surgeries, but even with a difficult hand he was a light to many others. He attended Jefferson High School. Luke was a "video gamer", he liked to play "Zelda" and from that he taught himself how to play the Ocarina. Daytona Beach and Cedar Point were two of his favorite places to visit. He especially loved the thrill of the roller coasters at these destinations. Luke loved music and was a talented artist. He enjoyed playing his guitar, writing music, and composing poetry. Luke and his friends had recently established their own band "3 Steps Away", and were just starting to book gigs. Luke had a genuine love for his family and friends. He often changed situations and stories in order to make them more pleasant or even happy. His sincere personality could be perceived as serious, but he had a smile that when you saw it, an individual would believe they were peering into heaven. Luke Pillarelli, age 18 of Monroe, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, January 5, 2014. His passing was preceded by his paternal grandparents Nicholas and Sharon Pillarelli and maternal grandfather David Eugene Williams, and one Uncle; David Edward Williams. To cherish his memory, Luke leaves his parents: Ricky and Martha Pillarelli; a loving sister: Misty; maternal grandmother: Vera Jane Williams; beloved aunts Rebecca, Esther, Rachel, Sheryl, and Bonnie; his uncles: Paul, Timothy, and Bryan; and several cousins. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Wednesday, January 8, 2014 at Merkle Funeral Service at 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am, Thursday, January 9, 2014 also at Merkle's. Rev. Kenny Goins to officiate. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the family to assist with funeral expenses. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.