John Nicholas Ludeman, 90, of Missoula, passed away Saturday, September 19, 2026, at his home with his loved ones by his side. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Katie O’Keefe’s Sports Bar & Grill. Online condolences may be left at gardencityfh.com.

John Nicholas Ludeman, son of John Felix and Emily (D’Agostino) Ludeman, was born June 6, 1936, in Irvington, New Jersey. He graduated from high school and joined the Army National Guard, where he served until his honorable discharge in 1956.

John married Patricia Callaway, and two children were born to this union. The couple later divorced. He then married Sandra Ludeman, and two children were born to this union. They also later divorced. John eventually met the love of his life, Barbara Carlascio. The two were united in marriage on October 4, 1980, and shared 45 years together.

John worked as a truck driver for most of his career, but his life outside of work was filled with a wide variety of passions and adventures. He was a stock car driver and enjoyed following stock car racing throughout his life. At the age of 45, John took up bareback riding and eventually became a Senior Pro. He went on to become the oldest bareback rider to compete in Senior Pro Rodeo. He continued to follow the sport long after retirement.

John was a member of the Harley-Davidson Missoula Chapter HOG and enjoyed riding with his friends. He was also active at Ridge Fitness, formerly Gold’s Gym, where he created many lasting friendships. He loved spending time on his houseboat, relaxing on the water, and could often be found tinkering on cars in his garage.

Despite his adventurous side, John was also a quiet homebody who enjoyed classic movies and television shows. He was an avid New York Giants fan throughout his life and had a special coffee mug reserved for celebrating a Giants victory.

Family was especially important to John. He loved when his grandchildren came to visit and spend the night. He enjoyed telling stories from his younger years, especially while sitting over a black cup of coffee. He would regularly pick up his granddaughter, Giuliana, from school and take her to McDonald’s for a special treat. John shared a special bond with his grandson, Cameron, and was a father figure to him throughout his life. Over the last year, John was blessed with many visits from family and was able to meet the newest addition to the family.

Most of all, John was a proud husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who treasured the time he was able to spend with the people he loved.

John lived one hell of a life.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 45 years, Barbara Ludeman; children, Cheryl Tiger, Jennifer (Scheff) Ahlyege, Cindy (Rick) Glass, Jenny Ludeman, and Justin (Randi) Ludeman; 18 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Emily Ludeman; son, Jeffery Ludeman; sister, Beverly Metzger; grandson, Adam Ahlyege; and son-in-law, Bob Tiger.