Bernadette Luedke

Bernadette Christine Luedke, 65, a wife, mother, grandmother, nurse assistant and entrepreneur, of Atwood, KS, died unexpectedly on August 9, 2023, at Rawlins County Health Center in Atwood, KS.

Bernadette was born in Atwood, Kansas on September 21, 1957, to Eugene and Virjean Reeh. She was baptized in her Catholic faith, had her first communion and confirmation all at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She graduated from Atwood High School in 1975. Through her life she worked as a nurse’s assistant at the Atwood Hospital, a manager at Atwood Good Samaritan, Assistant Manager at Walmart, a caregiver for several young children in Atwood, a guardian to several adults with disabilities, and ran B’s Boutique, a jewelry shop.

Bernadette was a devoted wife to Dennis Luedke. They were married June 14, 1975, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Atwood. She was excited with joy when Shane was born on December 13, 1979. Then again when Sheena joined the family on July 6, 1988. She fought many battles with her health over the years. She was also a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.

Bernadette was strong in her Catholic faith. She worshiped at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in
Atwood and enjoyed helping with mass and doing anything else she could to help the church. Most recently she also volunteered on the Junior Miss Committee and Buffs Stampede Carnival. She always enjoyed her yard and vegetable and flower gardens. She loved to travel and care for other people.

Bernadette is survived by her husband; her children, Shane and Sheena Luedke (Lane Rietcheck); her grandchildren, Jayden Ashford and Kian Brogan; her sister Bea Suppes (Mike); several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bernadette was preceded in death by her parents and in-laws, Norman and Bonna Lee Luedke; brother-in-law, James Luedke and several extended family members.

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Monday, August 14, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 15, 2023, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, with burial in Mt. Calvary, Atwood. Memorials may be made to Buffs Stampede Carnival and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or to leave condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com