August 8, 2025
It takes a village… and right now, our village is grieving.
Brent Patrick Lueken, age 45, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving brother, sisters, and devoted parents, who dedicated their lives to caring for their son with a developmental disability. Brent was born in Louisville, KY, on April 28, 1980, and grew up in Ashland, KY, where he lived with his family.
Mostly non-verbal, Brent had an extraordinary gift for understanding and playing any handheld video game. He loved his Xbox and watching TV, and he could always find the right sports channel for his parents when they couldn’t. A true sports fan, he cheered for nearly every sport but held a special love for the UofL Cardinals, UK Wildcats, the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, WWE, NASCAR, and college athletics. He was also known for his simple joys: chicken nuggets, fries, and a cold Coke Zero—earning him the nickname “Chicken Man.”
Brent’s presence in the Boyd County schools helped other students with disabilities, thanks to his parents’ tireless advocacy. Their efforts, along with the dedication of wonderful teachers, led to the creation of appropriate classrooms for students with disabilities. Brent was in the first Peer Tutor class at Boyd County High School, and many of those students went on to become physical, speech, and occupational therapists, or special education teachers. His life made a difference to people who may never even know his name, and his legacy of advocacy continues for all who need a voice.
He traveled widely with his family but was happiest at Holden Beach—playing in the waves, feeding seagulls, and searching for seashells with his loved ones. He had a gentle presence and a powerful soul, always reminding us what truly matters in life: family, love, and savoring each moment.
He loved his family deeply and returned that love tenfold. Brent is survived by his beloved parents, Patrick and Mary Anne Lueken; his sisters, Laura Bradley (Bill) and Kari Purvis (Mike); and his brother, Kyle Lueken. He is also survived by his cherished nephew, Connor McManus (“Con Con”), and his adoring nieces—Taylor McManus (“Tay Tay”), Morgan Bradley (“Mo Mo”), and Kennedy Bradley (“Nuh Nuh Nuh”). All of them loved “Uncle Brent” dearly and brought out the very best in him.
He shared a special bond with his Mawmaw and Pawpaw, who were among his biggest supporters and closest companions. We find comfort in knowing they are now reunited, holding each other close.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many caregivers who supported Brent over the years, with special gratitude to Dawn, whose loving presence and bond with Brent was irreplaceable. He was also blessed by the love and support of Uncle Dave and Aunt Lea, who became his Ashland family. He leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, and extended family who enriched his life deeply and many friends from Pathway’s and A Brighter Future.
Even while living with cancer, Brent embraced life with humor, connection, and grace. He showed us how to live fully without needing to say a word.
A celebration of Brent’s life will be held in October for all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Hildegard House (P.O. Box 5613, Louisville, KY 40255), a nonprofit organization that offers end-of-life care and a home for individuals without a home or loved ones, allowing them to die with dignity.
Brent, thank you for teaching us how to love better, laugh louder, and live more simply. We will carry your light with us always.
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