Rothel Lovins

Rothel Nelson Lovins, 88, of Somerset KY, died peacefully in his sleep Tuesday, June 18, 2019, in Greenwood, AR. He had been living in Arkansas under the care of two of his sons due to complications of dementia. Born in Cedarville, KY, Oct 18,1930, to Albie and Harvey Lovins, Rothel was from a large family consisting of 6 brothers and 1 sister, all preceding him in death.

Living in Somerset and unsure of what his next move after high-school would be, he enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 17. The army was his full time career. His service took him all over the world including tours in Alaska, Japan, and Germany, as well as serving in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. While serving his country Rothel was awarded 17 different service medals, including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal with valor. He was a brave and loyal soldier in the face of danger and combat. His family is extremely proud of what they learned of his skill and expertise both on the battlefield and during times of peace. After serving 25 years, Rothel was retired with full honors. Moving back to Somerset, he began a second career at Humana Hospital serving in security. He worked there until he and Barbara retired together in order to enjoy their grandchildren, country music, and Wheel of Fortune.

In 2004, Rothel was widowed. He and Barbara (Hutcherson) Lovins, his wife of 37 years, had a family of 4 children: Donna Lucas Lugar & Dave of Fort Yates, ND; (Rebecca, Jake, Steven & Travis), James (Jim) & Vicki Lucas of Georgetown, OH; (Jamie & Kenny), Roger & Lorri Lucas of Huntington, AR (Jordan, Gregory, & Adam), and Jerry & Theresa Lovins of Fort Smith, AR; (Heather & Hannah).

Their families mourn the loss of their dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa.

One thing is for certain, each time a new baby was born into the family it seemed his smile grew wider. As he aged and the great-grand babies kept coming, 18 in all, they secured a special place in his heart-one of which he met for the first time June 18, 2019.

Rothel is also survived by his companion, Maxine Auterson, of Gulf Manor, OH. Our family considers her a blessing to him.

In lieu of flowers the family requests expressions of sympathy in the format of donations to either the Alzheimer’s Association or the Bluegrass Military Affairs Coalition (BMAC KY) Wounded Warriors Program.

A funeral service will be held at 2:30 PM Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at Mill Springs National Cemetery, where interment will follow.

Military honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post #38 Honor Guard.

Visitation will be held from 12 pm to 2 pm at the chapel of Pulaski Funeral Home until time for procession to Mill Springs National Cemetery.

Pulaski Funeral Home is honored to assist the family during this time.