Barbara Louise Ludtke

Barbara Louise Ludtke, age 78 of St. Paul, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2024 surrounded by her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Velnie Vanek; husband, Larry Ludtke; brother, Thomas Vanek; sister, Karen Strom. She will be missed by those who survive her: children, Debra (Doug) Robinson, Alana (Scott) Reil, Andrea Ludtke; grandchildren, Madeline, Samuel, Katherine Robinson, Maggie and Tommy Minnick, Grace, Mary, Koda Brown; sister, Jaclyn (Greg) Zakrzewski; nieces and nephews, Ryan, Shauna,  and Kayla Strom, Garett, Gavin, and Gabby Zakrzewski.

Barb was a creative soul who loved to cook, craft and quilt. She had the gift of hospitality and no one ever left her home hungry. Her warmth and care for others was evident to everyone around her. Always perceiving the needs of others, she was quick to volunteer her time, donate her talents, and was generous with her hugs to anyone that needed one – especially to her family! In their younger years, Barb stayed home to raise her girls. Later on, she pursued a variety of jobs, concluding with a career in the business office of Ramsey Hospital. Through it all, she was involved in the lives of her children. In her words, she had “the best damn daughters in the world!”

A celebration of Barb’s life will be 5-7pm Thursday, May 23, 2024 at BRADSHAW, 1078 Rice Street, St. Paul, with time of sharing at 6:30pm. Memorials will be directed to Grace Hospice and Prelude Homes.