Remembering Lucas Mearian: A Passionate Tech Journalist and Friend
421The tech world lost a bright light last week with the sudden passing of Lucas Mearian, a senior reporter at Computerworld. He died on October 21 while recovering from heart surgery. Lucas was known for his curiosity, enthusiasm, and the genuine care he showed both in his work and toward others. He leaves behind his wife, Kim, and their family, and his absence is deeply felt across the tech journalism community.
Lucas’s Journey to Becoming a Tech Reporter
Lucas spent nearly a decade in the US Marine Corps before starting his journalism career. He first worked for local newspapers, including a short stint as editor-in-chief of a weekly paper. In June 2000, he joined Computerworld, where he dedicated himself to explaining complex technology topics in a way that everyone could understand. Over the next 25 years, he became a trusted voice on topics like data storage, automotive tech, 3D printing, privacy, fintech, and cryptocurrencies.
Lucas had a knack for finding stories in places others might overlook. One example was when he traveled deep into a mine in western Pennsylvania. Iron Mountain, a data storage company, had set up a unique project underground to study geothermal conditions for storing electronic documents. Lucas’s curiosity took him 22 stories underground, where he uncovered a story that many wouldn’t have thought was interesting but turned out to be compelling.
His Passion for Learning and Innovation
Lucas loved diving into new technologies. When blockchain technology became popular in the late 2010s, he didn’t shy away. Instead, he learned everything he could to explain how it works. He also became an expert in 3D printing, often printing objects himself to better understand the technology’s potential.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lucas explored how remote work was changing the workplace in real time. He was always eager to learn about the latest trends, whether it was the rise of generative AI, efforts to bring chip manufacturing back to the US, or new policies affecting global talent. In late 2022, he focused heavily on ChatGPT and other AI tools, explaining their impact on jobs and skills shortages.
More Than Just a Journalist
Lucas’s talents went beyond writing. He frequently appeared on camera for Computerworld’s video series and was a familiar face at industry events. One standout moment was at the CIO 100 conference in August, where he stepped in to host the media booth. Despite little preparation, he quickly secured interviews with over 20 C-suite executives, conducting on-camera interviews and building genuine connections.
His character was what truly set him apart. Lucas was kind, generous, and always willing to help. He shared his knowledge freely, promoted colleagues’ work, and celebrated their successes. Outside work, he was a talented baker, often bringing homemade pies to the newsroom during the holidays. He loved traveling around New England with his wife, Kim, especially visiting coastal spots like Newport and Vermont, where he enjoyed the local cheese and relaxed by the sea.
Lucas’s faith and compassion defined him. He reached out to colleagues in times of need, offering prayers and support. When a co-worker’s mother fell ill, he kept in touch, praying for her healing. Just days before his surgery, he took the time to help a colleague’s daughter understand what Marine life was like, demonstrating his caring nature.
A colleague who knew him well said, “Everyone who knew Lucas loved him.” Many believe it’s how someone makes others feel that leaves the biggest impact. Lucas’s kindness, faith, and character made everyone feel supported and valued. His loss leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him.
A celebration of Lucas’s life will be held on Saturday, November 1, at 4 p.m., and it will be live-streamed on YouTube. His family asks that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in his memory, honoring his service and spirit.
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