The JoAnne Ludtka Foundation was established to continue JoAnne’s legacy. JoAnne passed away in 2013 of Glioblastoma Multiforme Stage 4 brain cancer at the age of 57, after a courageous 7-month battle. This form of brain cancer unfortunately has no known cure. JoAnne was a vibrant, beautiful woman who had a passion to help others, especially children and the elderly. JoAnne married a great Irishmen, Jack Ludtka and has 2 amazing children, Kelly, and John. Sadly, JoAnne passed before setting eyes on any of her 6 sweet and beautiful grandchildren.   

As anyone of her family or friends would attest, JoAnne was truly the life of the party when gatherings occurred. She lit up the room when she walked in and was instant entertainment for everyone. One of her greatest joys came from making people laugh. JoAnne was truly our funny girl! You could always count on her to put a smile on your face. She had a zest for life, a heart of gold and she touched everyone’s heart that had the privilege of knowing her. 

JoAnne loved and gave so much attention to children, especially those in our family. As part of our foundation mission, one goal is to keep smiles on children’s faces, including those children that may be dealing with similar illnesses. This, we believe, would be one of JoAnne’s wishes. 

JoAnne also had a special connection with the elderly. She worked in the medical field greeting and welcoming so many seniors over her career. If you asked our parents opinion, she truly was the person that put smiles on their faces along with those of our relatives and their friends. Another part of the mission of our foundation, will be to focus on the special needs of the elderly in our community. All funds raised by our foundation will remain right here in Western New York.

Whether JoAnne was your daughter, wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, niece, aunt, great aunt, cousin, or friend, she is a special blessing in all our lives for which we are so grateful. JoAnne will continue to live on through our wonderful memories that each of us hold dear in our hearts of “The Way We Were”. JoAnne’s legacy will continue to live on with your support and the efforts of this foundation.

Thank you for your support of our mission!