Frederick Emil Ludtke was born in Zumbrota, Minnesota to Bernice Kane and Emil Ludtke in 1929. He attended Winona State University, earning both BS and MS degrees and began his career in public education.

Fred served in the Air Force where he learned to fly and aviation remained a life long passion.

In 1962 he married the love of his life, Elaine Fornia and they have two sons, Rick (Paula) and Marc (Joan). They were married for nearly 60 years. Fred was a loving, wonderful grandfather to his 6 grandchildren, Christina, Tim, Aria, Alyssa, Ethan, and Callie.

Fred taught school for several years with time off at The Boeing Company where he worked as an Engineer. He returned to teaching in 1970 at South Whidbey High School.

So that you might better know him, his son Marc wrote this in his honor:
Some of you knew him as a teacher and a mentor. Some, as a great aviator and airshow pilot.
Fred was also a community organizer, church leader, local fisherman, and volunteer.
We knew him as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.
We miss him immensely.
Fred Ludtke has folded his logbook and flown west. He was 92.
We love you, Fred.

Services will be August 19, 3:00 P.M., at St. Augustine’s in-the-Woods Episcopal Church, 5217 Honeymoon Bay RD Freeland.
Memorial gifts may be made to St. Augustine’s in-the-Woods Memorial Fund or Senior Resources.