Lucas Roel Alaniz

Lucas Roel Alaniz, he was the summer of our lives (musician, songwriter, outdoorsman, husband, father, son, brother, cousin, friend, and teacher) passed from this world 800 years too soon on May 19th, at the age of 49.

Born December 27th, 1974 in Edinburg, TX, Lucas was the beloved and strong willed middle child of Gilbert and Janie Alaniz. Growing up with them, his two brothers, extended family, and friends, he filled those days with fun, laughter, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, drumming, and occasional hellraising.

In 1999 he met a girl named Lauren and told her he was going to marry her on their first date. She replied that yes, he was. Twenty five years together (longer together than either had been alive before they met) is not enough when you’re married to your best friend. They had a love for the ages. In 2006, 2009, and 2015 Lucas’s true pride came into the world with his three daughters: Lily, Noelle, and Mary. He taught them to fish, play music, shoot a basketball, and more. He loved every minute of being a father and with a depth and breadth amazing to behold. His love endures.

His deep love for his immediate family also extended to his other family and friends. His friendships were special, and those he held onto and cherished. To them he would say that the shared music, good times, and laughter cannot be forgotten. 

He graduated from Edinburg High School in 1993. He then later graduated with honors from Texas State University, earning both a double bachelor’s and master’s, and did so while staying home with his girls. He then became an amazing educator who loved teaching the occasional student who listened. 

He is survived by his wife and girls, his mother Janie, his brothers Sonny and Ricco and their spouses and children. He was preceded in death by his much loved father, Gilbert.

If he could send a message he would say this: 

Fill your life with love and laughter. 

Read a book: either the Three Musketeers by Dumas, or The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels by John Meacham—or both. 

Surround yourself with good music.