Luka Szymkiw, age 90, passed away at his home on December 17, 2011 after a long illness. Luka was born in Ukraine on April 12, 1921, a son of the late Theodore & Katherine Szymkiw, he came to the United States in 1950. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Katherine Malik Szymkiw; his loving children, Alexandra Allderige & her husband Clifford and Michael W. Szymkiw; his cherished grandchildren, Heather & Clifford Allderige II, all of Hamden. Luka was predeceased by his brothers, John & Michael Szymkiw. He was employed in the stock room of the New Haven Water Company for over 30 years, retiring in 1986 and was a parishioner of St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church. Luka enjoyed working around the house and insisted on cutting his own lawn well into his 80's. His greatest joy, however, was spending time with his family, especially his two grandchildren who he loves very much. He will be dearly missed. His funeral will leave from BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave, Hamden on Wednesday at 9:00 AM, followed by Mass at 10:00 AM in St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church. Friends may visit with his family at the funeral home on Tuesday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM with a Panachyda Service held at 7:00 PM. Interment will take place in St. Lawrence Cemetery, West Haven. Donations in Luka's memory may be made to St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church, 569, George Street, New Haven, CT 06511.