Obituary of Roger William Luedtke

Roger William Luedtke of Port Charlotte, Florida born in East Chicago, Indiana on August 31, 1946 passed away peacefully on May 9, 2023, surrounded by his family. Born to Claron “Red” Luedtke and Elva Luedtke Haviley and proceeded in death by his wife Diane (Berry) Luedtke, Roger was an outstanding single father to his daughters Erin and Lauren following the death of their mother. Roger was blessed later in life to find his other half, best friend, and wife of nearly 25 years, Patricia Luedtke. He was blessed with a family who loved him dearly including his children Erin (Chris) Phillips, Lauren (Andrew) Bates and bonus children Kelly (Tim) Hicks, Jason Flanagin, and Sean (Rachel) Flanagin, grandchildren: Justin (Lindsay) Johnson, Nick (Mallory) Terry, Sam Terry, Kierra Flanagin, Tristan Phillips, Oscar Bates, Garrett and Jack Flanagin, and great-grandchildren:  Liam and Elliot Terry, Knox and Aliva Johnson. Roger was also blessed with many cousins in Northwest Indiana. Roger spent his childhood in Cedar Lake, Indiana, where he shared many adventures with his brother Darrell.  Prior to starting his career in the steel industry, he proudly served in Vietnam as an Airforce Airborne Radio Operator. Roger loved raising money through numerous golf outings, and hosted the best back yard barbeques. Though Roger never had formal training many considered him the best chef in town! Knowing the weather was better down south, he and Pat retired in sunny Florida to enjoy retirement with his many new friends. Roger served in multiple leadership roles, which benefited so many individuals. We thank him for his service and leadership in the VFW, American Legion, and Trinity Lutheran SWF. Roger W. Luedtke was a servant leader, family man, and devoted Christian. His foundation of faith in Christ was the most important thing in his life and he passed on this legacy to his family. Though we will miss him dearly, we know that we will rejoice in heaven with him again one day. The family invite you to join us for a memorial service at Trinity Lutheran Church of Southwest Florida, 1379 S McCall Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33981, on Saturday May 27^th at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow at the North Port VFW Post. We invite participants to wear Red, White, or Navy, if they would like in celebration of Roger’s love for God and his country. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Church in his name.