Richard A. Luedke, age 76, of Hayward, WI passed away on Friday, May 1, 2020 at his home. 

Richard “Dick” Luedke was born February 27, 1944 in Ogema, WI the son of Theodore and Martha (Bang) Luedke.  Dick was named in honor of his uncle who stormed Normandy in World War II and survived. He was raised an outdoorsman by a large and loving family in the Ogema area and graduated from high school in Prentice, WI in 1962.  He continued his education at University of Wisconsin-Superior where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education.  On June 4, 1966, Dick graduated from UW-Superior and then was married to Joyce Marie Maki in Oulu, WI.  Dick began his teaching career in Barron, WI where he spent two years before taking a job with DC Everest School System.  While teaching, Dick earned his Master’s Degree in Education from UW-Superior.  Dick spent over thirty years teaching US History and Geography with the DC Everest School System before his retirement.  He also spent his summers doing various kinds of construction work, usually for other teachers.  In 2003, Dick and Joyce moved to Hayward, WI where they built their retirement home.  Dick enjoyed the outdoors and was a skilled hunter, fisherman, and cross-country skier.  He finished 19 American Birkebeiner races.  He also enjoyed golfing, reading and memorizing maps, and camping with his family and friends.  He will be remembered as a teacher at heart, a great story teller, and a person who could make friends quickly with anyone.

Dick is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joyce; two children, Mary (Toni) Karlsson of St. Paul, MN, Ernie Luedke of Rothschild, WI; five grandchildren, Connor, Ian, Adam, Henrik and Elsa; one sister, Lorene (Glenn) Carlson, of Wenatchee, WA; two nephews, three nieces; and his aunt Dora (Luedke) Molitor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, many uncles and aunts, and friends that he dearly loved.

A private family service will be held for Dick. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to DC Everest Education Foundation (6300 Alderson St Weston, WI 54476) or the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (PO Box 911 Hayward, WI 54843).

Last Update: May 06, 2020 10:45 am CDT