David Ludwig May 25, 1951 - May 31, 2021

David Michael Ludwig

Departed this life, Monday, May 31, 2021.

Beloved husband of Peppie Goevert, (nee McBride) dear father of Charlotte Ludwig, dear stepfather of Emily Goevert and Ellen Goevert, dear son of the late Norbert and Juanita Ludwig, dear grandfather of Iris Jane Stokes and Henry Elliot Hulet, dear brother of Danny (Michele) Ludwig, dear nephew of Cookie (Carol) McCardie, and dear uncle.

Dave was a good man surviving a hard childhood. At 13, he lived with his grandfather and subsequently did a man’s work working the line at Brown Shoe company.  Upon reaching eligible age, joined the Army and served two tours in Vietnam. This combat veteran overcame the difficulties of post war combat, and became a tradesman and journeyman repairing auto bodies.  Not one to be forced to corporate rules, timelines and certain bosses, he worked independently at this difficult and demanding trade until his disabilities and age caught up with him.

Dave loved racing and cars his entire life.  After Vietnam, he was sponsored as a driver for CART racing, and he competed with driver’s who moved on to Indy racing competition.  The sponsors of his CART team were pleased with his success, but his advancement was limited.  As told by the sponsor: you are too old, too big and you party too much.  This 26 year old driver was 6 ft 2” and a lean 185-pound man, but that’s too large for Indy Car racing.  As a competitor, he always indicated second place is the first loser.  That’s the making of professional athletes and race car drivers.

Dave’s good fortune includes his loving wife Peppie Goevert. He dearly loved their daughter Charlotte and his stepdaughters Ellen and Emily. While Dave’s mom left this earth some time ago, she never left his spirit. And he always loved his dog, Marshall.

His nieces adored their uncle. Dave was forgiving of their antics but did not hesitate to scold and criticize if necessary.  Julie, Michelle, Laura and Katie all join the family with a hole in their hearts.

Dave had a lifelong buddy, Jerry, and others that attended races with him.  His pals and his association with the VFW post became a part of him.  During his time as Commander of the post, friends would chuckle when this non-conformist man had to be told to tuck in his shirt and wear a belt when he spoke to the mayor and other politicians on Memorial Day.

He and his brother Danny had much different personalities and vocations, but they had a lifelong friendship and respect for each other that many brothers would envy.  Non-judgmental, a big heart, honest conversation and open to other opinions is a good way to describe Dave’s traits.  The man was never afraid to stand his ground for his family, friends and beliefs.

He will be missed.

Services:  Graveside service will be held Friday, June 11 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, 2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis, MO 63125 at 10 a.m. Please meet in the parking lot behind the Administration Building.  A gathering for family and friends will be held at VFW Post 3500, 1717 South Big Bend Blvd., St. Louis, MO  63117 starting at 1:00 p.m. Contributions to VFW Post 3500, 1717 South Big Bend Blvd., St. Louis, MO  63117 appreciated.