Ralph Luedtke

PAID OBITUARY

Mr. Ralph Luedtke of the Town of Cedarburg passed away peacefully at his home with his family Saturday morning, Dec. 29, 2018, at the age of 92.

Ralph was born in Milwaukee on Sept.19, 1926, the son of Charles and Carrie Jahn Luedtke.  

He attended Keefe Avenue School and graduated from Rufus King High School before serving proudly in the U.S. Army.  

After he returned from service, Mr. Luedtke attended Layton School of Art in Milwaukee, where he studied photography.

On Sept. 22, 1956, Ralph was united in marriage with Carol Hagen at Gospel Lutheran Church.  

The couple built their home in the Town of Cedarburg, a plan designed by Carol. It was an ideal marriage.

Ralph worked as a photographer and later as an editor for Ideal Publishing Co. in Wauwatosa.  He retired in 1986 after 35 years on the job.

 Mr. Luedtke sang tenor with the Milwaukee German Maennerchor and was the oldest living member of Gospel Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, where he had served as an usher, elder and the church historian.

Ralph was a longtime member and past president of the Ozaukee County Historical Society and was instrumental in securing the Interurban train station as a permanent home for the organization and its archives office.

He was a founding member and past president of the Milwaukee Area Radio Enthusiasts (MARE), bringing back “Billie the Brownie,” an iconic Milwaukee radio program for children.  

Ralph served on the Town of Cedarburg Planning Commission and had also served as an election poll worker.

He is survived by his wife Carol and their daughter Carolyn Boettcher of Cedarburg, brother Daniel Luedtke of Thiensville, nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.  

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles Sr. and Carrie Luedtke and brother Charles Luedtke.

At Ralph’s request, no formal services will be held.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.