Ross McNeil Ludeman died on August 5, 2026. He was born on March 21, 1933, to Fern McNeil Ludeman and George Mueller Ludeman. Tragically, his father died in a work-related accident when he was 10 weeks old. Ross spent his childhood in Atkins, Iowa, a small rural town where his mother was a school teacher. At age 5, his mother remarried to Elmer Schueler who became his stepfather. A bright student, Ross was valedictorian of his 1950 high school class. At Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa, Ross excelled academically and proudly received his Phi Beta Kappa key and graduated in 1954. Most importantly, he met Virginia “Ginger” Drees, Cornell College, 1955 and thus began a partnership that surpassed 70 years of marriage.

Following their wedding, Ross went to Princeton Theological Seminary while Ginger taught Kindergarten in New Jersey. Graduating in 1957, Ross accepted a call to the Gurnee Community Church in Gurnee, Illinois. Here they welcomed their children, Evan and Margaret.

Ross came to the Chicago Presbytery in 1968 during a pivotal time in the nation. Civil Rights and Social Justice solidified his passion for inclusion and compassion. Called in 1971 to Community Presbyterian Church, Clarendon Hills, Illinois, Ross became the first Associate Pastor and developed the confirmation program, Disciples and Post Disciples and led retreats for youth ministry. He organized and led youth work caravans to Kentucky, West Virginia and Iowa. Along with Ginger, they supported the youth and their families of the church and nurtured the lives of all who knew them. Their impact remains an important and life changing legacy for many people.

Westminster Presbyterian Church, West Hartford, Connecticut, called Ross as the Senior Pastor in 1983. He served 15 years here bringing strong leadership and guidance. His sermons were those of a Biblical scholar tying in history and present-day issues. He shared stories of his life experiences that were humbling and human. Ross encouraged questions and curiosity about life, faith, humanity, differing perspectives, forgiveness and accountability.

In 1998, Ross and Ginger retired to Grafton, Vermont, where they enjoyed many years in the beauty of New England. Ross enjoyed pottery, woodworking, house fixing, tending the sheep and donkeys on their property, and having much time to read, pursue photography and community service interests. Ross was an animal lover, and many dogs and cats were spoiled throughout his life. He was a loving grandfather to Annika and Lisabeth, a thoughtful, caring and funny dad to Evan and Margaret and a devoted partner to Ginger.

His last years were spent at Covenant Living in Keene, New Hampshire. Here he and Ginger enjoyed new friends and as they aged, the dedicated care of the staff supported them through their final days.

Ross will be deeply missed for his welcoming and attentive nature. He was a keen observer of life and connection. He held a wonderment of the universe, was an avid historian, and he shared a quick and delightful sense of humor which will be long remembered.

Predeceased by his wife, Ginger, and granddaughter, Annika Lange, he is survived by his son Evan (Anne Marie), granddaughter Lisabeth Ludeman and daughter, Margaret (Alan) Lange.

On August 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. a joint Celebration of Life for Ross and Ginger will be held at Covenant Living, 95 Wyman Rd., Keene, New Hampshire. Local friends to New Hampshire and Vermont and the Covenant Living Community are welcome.

A second Celebration of Life for Ross and Ginger will take place on October 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2080 Boulevard, West Hartford, Connecticut. All are welcome.

Donations in their memories may be made to Grafton Cares, P.O. Box 134, Grafton VT 05146.

Assisting with arrangements is the Cremation Society of New Hampshire, Brattleboro. To view Ross’s online tribute, send condolences to his family, or for more information, visit www.csnh.com