Gerhardt Ludwig Radtke

Gerhardt Ludwig Radtke, 101, of South Haven, died Monday, June 10, 2013 at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. He was born December 1, 1911 to Paul and Augusta (Gerling) Radtke in South Haven. Gerhardt worked for Everett Piano Company for twenty-five years. He also maintained the family Christmas tree farm on Airport Road for many years. Gerhardt served his country in the United States Army, 138^th HM Ordnance, stationed in Germany, France and England during World War II for which he received two bronze stars. Gerhardt attended Bangor Bible Church for many years before attending Hope Reformed Church in South Haven.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by three sisters – Eleanor, Paula, and Clara; and grandson – Christopher Craig Ridley.

Gerhardt is survived by his wife of 63 years – Marjorie Parrish Radtke; Son – Phillip Radtke of South Haven; daughter – Karyn Radtke Ridley of South Haven; grandson – Bradley Radtke of South Haven; granddaughter – Lacey (Mitchell) Ridley Rowton of Kalamazoo; four nieces – Margaret (Bob) LeBaron of Phoenix, AZ, Paula (Howard) Filbrandt, Mary Jean (Jack) Harbin, and Judy (David) Schlaack all of South Haven; one nephew and “best friend” – David (Bette) Allers of South Haven. Countless great nieces and nephews also survive including a very special great, great nephew - Jake (April) Filbrandt of South Haven.

Visitation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. Funeral services will be Tuesday, June 18, 2013 at 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home with Pastor Eric Jarvis officiating. Gerhardt will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Gerhardt’s memory to We Care INC, 06321 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090.