George M. Ludvik

George M. Ludvik passed away peacefully with loved ones at his bedside and with the care of hospice in his home.

Our dad, George Ludvik, was born on July, 26, 1930, the seventh child of Marie and Antone Ludvik, who immigrated to Dwight, NE, from what is present day, Rouchvany, Moravia, Czech Republic.   Having been born in 1930, Dad experienced the severe hardships and drought of the depression years.  Dad broke his arm at the age of 5 and due to the complex fracture and the limited knowledge of health care, dad’s left arm could never be completely straightened.  This was a major factor in dad’s future as he was unable to engage in extended  physical labor and was ineligible for military service.

Dad’s father died when he was 9 years old and his mother had a stroke when he was 12.  With the help of family members, dad cared for his mother in the home from age 12 through his high school years.  After graduating as salutatorian, dad taught two years at a country school, driving his Model A on country roads through all kinds of weather.  Dad continued to care for his mother at home during his teaching years.

Upon the death of his mother, dad moved to Omaha to begin his education towards a bachelors in chemistry, working his way through college in various jobs.  In 1953, Dad met Helyn McDermott, the love of his life, and in 1955, they were married.  After graduating from Omaha University and with Mom’s “support and encouragement”, Dad went on to earn his master’s degree in microbiology from Creighton University., all the while raising a family.

While working at the following companies; Quaker Oats, Cudahy, Campbell Soup, Standard Chemical, Harris Labs of Lincoln and International Nutrition, dad developed many new products and procedures working as both chief chemist and in quality control, for both domestic and international markets.  With the help of many friends, Dad thoroughly enjoyed his work and felt he accomplished his professional goals.  Dad repeatedly shared with us that he loved his work.

In addition to his professional work, Dad enjoyed umpiring and eventually coaching junior, senior and women’s softball for the teams of the towns of Ashland and Wahoo.  Dad’s coaching career earned him the state recognition that awarded him the Jim Hall Memorial Award for 1982.  This award is given in recognition for his outstanding coaching ability and sportsmanship.

Upon retiring, Mom and Dad loved spending their time with family and friends, making several trips across the country. 

Dad is survived by his loving wife, Helyn of 68 years, his four children; daughters Cynthia (Truckenbrod), Elizabeth Ludvik and Marilee Ludvik and son George Ludvik and wife Julie, as well as 8 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Public visitation will be on Tuesday, August 1 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the church lobby of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Omaha, NE, with the Mass of celebration and thanksgiving following at 10:30.  Luncheon will follow immediately in the hall of the parish.  Burial will be at Dwight, NE.

Roeder Mortuary, 2727 N 108th Street, Omaha NE - (402) 496-9000 - www.RoederMortuary.com