At the age of 18, Johnny was drafted by the United States Army where he fought on the frontlines in the Korean War. He received a Bronze Star of which he was very proud of. Upon returning home, he began his Rodeo career where soon after, he met the love of his life, Sylvia. They were married on February 14, 1960. Born of their union were Leslie Ann, Gordon, and Trent, who they both adored.
Johnny was a lifetime member of the Baytown Fair and Rodeo. Later he became one of the greatest rodeo producers with outstanding horses and bulls, traveling all over the country with his children supporting his vision. With all that he achieved, his most cherished accomplishments were his children and grandchildren.
Johnny was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Sylvia. He is survived by his children, Leslie Featherngill and husband Wade, Gordon Ludtke and wife Donna, and Trent Ludtke and wife Marty; two grandchildren, Tregan Ludtke and Jordon Ludtke; brother, Buddy Ludtke, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, family, and many special friends.
Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM, Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at Navarre Funeral Home, 2444 Rollingbrook Drive, Baytown, Texas 77521. Funeral service will be at 10 AM, Thursday, May 4, 2023 at Navarre Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Earthman Memory Gardens Cemetery, Baytown, Texas.
Honored to serve as pallbearers: Pat LeBouef, Duston Hull, Brad Wolcik, Timmy Massengale, Rusty Bradberry, and Jake Smalley. Honorary pallbearers: James Massengale, Jerry Locke, Wes Jackson, Mike Weaver, and Tommy Ingram.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the Arboretum of Winnie for the care shown to our father.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to: Wounded Warriors at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org, or Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund at www.justincowboycrisisfund.org, or a charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.navarrefuneralhome.com for the Ludtke family.
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