Edward Richard Ludloff

EDWARD RICHARD LUDLOFF passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 11, 1931, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Richard Herman Ludloff and Eleanor Child Ludloff. Growing up during the Great Depression in a close-knit family, Ed learned early the value of hard work, faith, and caring for others. His childhood in Hawaii gave him a lifelong love for the islands and the ocean, something he returned to often and held close to his heart.

As a young man, Ed served in the United States Air Force before beginning a life centered on family, faith, and meaningful work.

Ed married his sweetheart, Joanne, in July 1953. Together they shared nearly 53 years of marriage, building a home filled with love, faith, and devotion to family until her passing in April 2006. Later in life, Ed was blessed to find companionship again and married Suzette. Together they shared nearly 20 years of marriage, enjoying travel, service, and time with family.

Family was the center of Ed’s life. He cared deeply for his children and grandchildren, but his love extended far beyond that. He had a quiet, steady way of watching over others, offering guidance, support, and encouragement. Many were blessed by his willingness to treat extended family and friends as his own, always making time to listen, help, and lift those around him.

Ed’s faith in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was his compass. He served in many capacities throughout his life. He helped organize the California Long Beach Mission and served as second counselor in the mission presidency. He later served as Branch President of the Cambodian Branch, where he developed a deep love for the people and learned to rely fully on the Lord. In later years, he continued his service on the Stake High Council. His faith was steady and sincere, something he lived each day through quiet acts of service and devotion.

Ed carried these same principles into his professional life. He spent 23 years with Ford Motor Company, where he progressed from accounting into industrial engineering and leadership roles. As a Senior Industrial Engineer overseeing body and paint operations, and later as General Supervisor of the Small Parts Paint Department, he was known for solving complex problems and improving quality through thoughtful, practical solutions.

He later joined Calsonic Climate Controls as Director of Manufacturing and ultimately became a board member and Executive Vice President, the highest position held by an American in the company. During his time there, he helped expand manufacturing operations and grow the business significantly, while building lasting relationships with Japanese colleagues based on trust, respect, and integrity.

While his career was meaningful, Ed’s greatest impact was often found in his service to others. He dedicated over two decades to Young Horizons, serving as a board member, fundraising chairman, chairman, and being named “Man of the Year.” His contributions were so significant that a new Young Horizons center was named the “Ludloff Family Center” in his honor.

He also served as Chairman of the Board for Mentoring A Touch From Above, Board Chairman of the United Cambodian Community, and as a member of the Long Beach City Planning Commission for eight years, including one year as chairman.

Even in his later years, Ed continued to serve his community. As part of the Long Beach Fire Ambassadors, he worked with and taught children, reflecting his lifelong desire to guide, mentor, and uplift others. Service was never something he finished; it was simply who he was.

Ed loved to travel and especially cherished returning to Hawaii with family, sharing with them the place that shaped him. Whether exploring the islands, traveling abroad, or simply spending time together, those moments were among his most treasured.

He will be remembered for his steady presence, his leadership, and his sense of humor. Family and friends will always smile at memories of his stories or familiar phrases he used to put people at ease, like saying, “We’re off like a herd of turtles!” when heading out together.

Family, faith, service, and love defined Ed’s life. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Ed is survived by:

His wife, Suzette; his children, James Ludloff and Susan Sewell; and his stepdaughter, Staci (Lee) Loveridge. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Additionally, he is survived by his three younger sisters: Carol (David) Horn, Mary-Lynne Ludloff, and Kathy (Dennis) Diaz, along with many extended family members and friends who will carry his memory forward.

He is preceded in death by:

His wife Joanne Morrison Ludloff; his parents, Richard H. Ludloff and Eleanor Child Ludloff; his son-in-law, Vern Sewell; and his stepson, Scott Reynolds and his wife, Gail.