Thomas "Luke" Eugene Zaleski, 83, of Elyria passed away peacefully on Tuesday December 5, 2023 at the Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake. He was born April 5, 1940 at Elyria Memorial Hospital to Valeria and Adam Zaleski whom precede him in death. Tom was a 1958 graduate of Elyria High School. His love for cars started at a very young age. Tom worked at local gas stations saving up for his first car, which was a 1949 Ford four door sedan. Shortly after, he acquired his first hot rod and a 1951 Plymouth. At age 20, Tom joined Chuggers, a local car club. Luke, along with good friends Bucky and Joe ran the #81 race car, a 1962 Chevy, at the local Lorain County and Sandusky Speedways. They were highly noted around the track and were known for winning along with always having a good time. He worked briefly at Grafton Foundry before going to work as an assembler for 26 years at the General Motors Fisher Guide plant until retirement. In retirement he enjoyed watching sports, yard work, and visiting friends and family. Thomas was a life member of the Elyria United Polish Club. He was also a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, the Moose Lodge #778, American Legion Post 12 and Grafton V.F.W. Post 3341. Survivors include his sister, Jo-Ann, nieces and nephew, including Goddaughter, Stacey, Dan and Jana, Christine and Michael, dear friend Joan, cousins he grew up with and several lifelong friends. Family will receive friends Friday December 15, 2023 from 10:30 a.m. until the time of Services at 12:30 p.m. at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at State Rt. 57), Elyria. The Rev. Father Charles Diedrick, Pastor of St. Mary Church will Officiate. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Elyria. Memorial contributions can be made to the Hospice of the Western Reserve 300 East 185th St. Cleveland, OH. 44119 or St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave., Elyria. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com