Robert "Pigeon Bob" Ralph Luedke

Robert “Pigeon Bob” Ralph Luedke, age 79 of Dalton, passed away on June 25, 2024, at his home.

Bob was born on March 2, 1945, in Ripon, Wisconsin, the son of Ralph and Dorthea (Lannin) Luedke. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1963-1966. Bob married his first wife, JoAnn Short in 1966 and they were blessed with 4 children. He later met the love of his life, Loretta Erdman and they were married on June 30, 1975, in Rockford, Illinois. He was previously employed with Seneca Foods in Mayville. Bob was a member of the Montello Racing Pigeon Club and Kingston Legion. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing, hunting and gardening.

Bob is survived by his wife, Loretta Luedke; children, Carl (Teresa) Luedke, Tammy (Thomas) Immel, Raymond Luedke, William Luedke, James Luedke, Joseph Luedke, Jane (Dathan) Hiemstra and Michael (Allison) Luedke; 14 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Katherine Luedke; brothers, Kenneth, John and James Luedke; in laws, Richard and Pearl Erdman.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Markesan Community Funeral Home, 868 North Margaret Street, Markesan, WI 53946.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Markesan Community Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Zacharias officiating. Burial will follow at Lake Maria Cemetery with Military Honors provided by Duwane “Sonny” Walker American Legion Post 395.