The loss of Fred Ludewig

ESHPA has lost one of its own and a great beekeeper, Fred Ludewig.  Fred passed peacefully December 10th at home with his family by his side.  Fred was 89.  He leaves his wife Doris married for 62 years, a daughter Judy, son Erick, 5 grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.

I’ve known Fred about 35 years since joining ESHPA.  Fred had a wealth of information about the history of ESHPA and was our historian for many years.  He recently passed that job on because of declining health.

We worked together for many years at part of the ESHPA committee for “Beekeeper of the Year.”

Fred was awarded the second honorary lifetime membership, second only to Roger Morris.  I was honored the privilege of presenting the award to him in 1999.  Fred was also awarded “Beekeeper of the Year.”

Fred along with Bob Stevens and Al Lounsbury started the Southern Adirondack Beekeeper Association in 1982.  Prior to starting SABA, he and son Erick taught beekeeping classes since 1975.

We had many great phone conversations over those years and they will be missed.  ESHPA will also miss his knowledge and wisdom.

Call hours are at the Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Rd., Balston Lake, NY, 12019, Friday December 18th from 4:00-7:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 – 10:00 am.  Services will be at the Burnt Hills United Methodist Church.

Earl Villecco