John Francis "Papa John" "Big John" Ludwig

John Francis Ludwig passed away on November 9, 2016. Mr. Ludwig was born April 11, 1936 in Warrenton, VA, the son of the late Francis Ludwig and Nadine (Allison) Ludwig. He was preceded in death by his sister, Josephine Justis and his brother, Frank Ludwig.

Mr. Ludwig attended high school in Kennett Square, PA.  He was employed by Chrysler, working in the Newark, DE plant for 36 years.  He retired from there in 1994.

He was a member of St. Gabriel’s Lodge in New Castle, DE for many years, playing Santa Claus during their annual Christmas party.  He loved spending time with family and friends and enjoyed providing his two signature dishes of potato salad and meatballs at any and every gathering.  He cherished his vacations spent in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Mr. Ludwig is survived by his wife, Antoinette (Manetti) Ludwig, his son, John V. Ludwig, and his daughter and son-in-law, Kristina and Tony Santoro.  He is also survived by his two grandsons, Anthony and Brandon Santoro; sisters, Frankie Reynolds, Joan Stadelman-Walker (his twin), and Connie Taylor; brother, Rege Ludwig (Janet); sisters-in-law, Zody Ludwig and Julie Manetti.  In addition, Mr. Ludwig leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

A service honoring John's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, November 14, 2016 in the chapel of Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720, with a visitation beginning at 1:00 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mr. Ludwig’s name to the American Diabetes Association, 150 Monument Rd. # 100, Bala Cywyd, PA 19004.

 Service Information