Lucas Ahrendt, 33 of Sioux Falls, SD passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Lucas "Luke" Ewald Ahrendt was born on May 1, 1992, to Dave and Karen Ahrendt. From the very beginning, his strong will and determined spirit were clear to everyone who met him. Luke was their second child, and from an early age, he made it his mission to keep up with, or outdo, his big brother Nate. Whether it was playing sports, riding bikes, or spending every possible moment outdoors, Luke never did anything halfway.

When his little sister Aliza was born seven years later, Luke's world changed again. From the moment he met her, he took on the role of protector, even if he half-jokingly tried to trade her in for a little brother. That protective streak never left him. Aliza still laughs about the time Luke threw away her lip gloss because it was "too dark for a young girl." It was just one of many ways he showed how much he cared.

After high school, Luke followed his creative side to Colorado, where he turned his artistic talent into a career as a tattoo artist. His work became more than just a job; it was a way for him to connect with people, share stories, and see the world. Tattooing gave Luke the freedom to travel, to meet people from all walks of life, and to experience things that most only dream about.

Luke's big heart and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He had a way of making people feel safe, seen, and loved. Friends and family often joked that he was a giant teddy bear. He was the first to scoop up a baby, sit down to color with a kid, or offer a hand to anyone in need. Luke was fiercely loyal, endlessly protective, and always ready with a joke or a laugh that could brighten even the darkest day.

He used to say, "You choose your family and friends." And those who were chosen by Luke knew just how lucky they were. Dave and Karen often said that because of him, they ended up with a lot of "bonus children." No matter how far he traveled or how long he was away, Luke always found his way home to his family, to his roots, and to the people he loved most.

Luke lived boldly, loved deeply, and left an unforgettable mark on every life he touched. His adventurous spirit and kind soul will be missed beyond words, but his love and laughter will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A celebration of Luke's life will be held from 1 to 4 pm on Saturday November 8, 2025 at Vinyl Taco, 3609 South Western Avenue. In honor of Luke, friends are encouraged to share stories, laughter, and memories that capture the spirit of who he was.