Richard E. Ludecke, Sr.

Richard E. Ludecke, 84 of Prospect passed away peacefully on March 30, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family.  He was the beloved husband of Joyce C. (Burgio) Ludecke for 58 Years.

Richard “Dick” was born on May 9, 1939 in Waterbury, CT and raised in Milldale, CT to the late Edward A. Ludecke and Marguerite (Fontana) Ludecke. He attended Schools in Southington, Ct. He became a proud U.S Army Veteran serving his Country from 1959-1962.  A member of Local IUOE 478 for 60 years working on highways & other construction sites.  A self-taught welder he worked for Tilcon in Wallingford repairing & rebuilding equipment until his retirement in 2001.

Family was very important to him, and he cherished the time he spent with them.  His greatest joys were watching his children and grandchildren grow up, teaching them many life values and doing projects with them. Many more enjoyable moments for him, included vacationing in Maine with his family and traveling cross country with his wife.  A good “country song” always brought a smile to his face.  Dick was an avid car enthusiast and attended many car shows through the years, showing his own cars.  NASCAR racing was another interest that literally glued him to the TV every Sunday for many years.  He was a strong man who believed in God, living by faith, and sharing his wisdom.  He had a kind, patient and easy-going character. His jokes and laughter will always be remembered.  He will be deeply missed by his family, and those who knew him.

Besides his wife Joyce, Dick was survived by his children Richard Ludecke, Jr, of Wolcott, CT Gretchen Ludecke of Wolcott, CT, Kristine Jones and her husband, Christopher Jones of Prospect, CT, four grandchildren, Julia Svitlik and her husband Andrew Svitlik of Simsbury, CT,  Paul, Ryan and Emma Jones of Prospect, CT. Two brothers Robert Ludecke, of Milldale, CT and girlfriend Janet, James Ludecke and wife, Lori Ludecke of West Virginia. 

We now want to take a moment to extend our gratitude towards the wonderful women who assisted in taking care of him.  We will always cherish their caring and compassionate hearts.

Arrangements: A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated for Richard on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at St. Anthony’s Church, 4 Union City Rd., Prospect followed by interment with military honors at Prospect Cemetery.  All are kindly asked to meet directly at the church.  Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Ludecke family with the services and throughout this difficult time of grief.  Please visit www.prospectmemorial.com to share your online condolences.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Association at act.alz.org. 

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