Ronald V. Ludka

1951 - 2016

Ludka, Ronald V.

Ronald Valentine Ludka, 65, Ladysmith, passed away at home on Friday, October 28, 2016, surrounded by his loving family, after a short battle with liver cancer.

Ron was born on February 26, 1951, in Manitowoc, WI, to Raymond and Julia (Pozorski) Ludka.

He graduated from Lincoln High School in Manitowoc, WI, in 1970. Ron was in the army from 1971-1974 and served in Vietnam. He attended the Toledo School of Meat Cutting in 1976 and worked at various meat cutting jobs. He moved to Ladysmith in 1979. He attended Mount Senario College in Ladysmith and graduated with an Associate Degree in Art in 1984. Ron married Jean Atwood on June 21, 1986. He was also employed at Conwed and Weather Shield. He later returned to school at Mount Senario College and graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Art Degree. He received a teaching license in Art Education and worked as a substitute teacher until his health prevented it.

Ron was a man of many talents which included photography, drawing and painting. He played a variety of instruments, including trumpet, keyboards, guitar and harmonica. The Blues were his passion and he was never happier than when he could get on stage and jam playing his harmonica. His grandchildren were the light of his life and gave him great joy. They will miss "Papa" very much. Fishing was always one of his favorite hobbies and he loved taking family and friends out in his boat. He had fond memories of when his buddies all went camping and fishing together on opening weekend. Ron was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and played taps for many years, he considered this a privilege and an honor to do.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Jean, of Ladysmith; his children, Ryan (Michelle) Ludka, of Cadott, and Torie Ludka, Clayton; his brothers, Robert (Debbie) Ludka, of Appleton; Roger Ludka, of Butternut; and sisters, JoAnn (Tom) Boyson of Oshkosh; Jane (Dave) Villieneuve, of Manitowoc; and 5 grandchildren Triston, Kenton, Avery, Raven, and Raina; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful and loyal companion "Bruizer".

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Raymond, Jr.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 5, 2016, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Ladysmith. The family will receive friends at the church from 9:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery with military honors provided by the Ladysmith Veterans Association.

Nash Jackan Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.