Joan Marie Ludwig

Joan Marie Ludwig, 94, who resided at Brookdale Mt. Lebanon, passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. She was born August 14, 1931, in Ford City Pennsylvania, a daughter of the late Marvin and Frances Carberry. Joan had a long career in nursing; she graduated from West Penn School of Nursing, and then studied anesthesia at St. Francis Hospital. She worked for many years as a nurse anesthetist in Pittsburgh. Taking care of others was a lifelong passion that Joan fully embraced. Family and friends recall receiving her lovingly prepared treats throughout the years; baked, packaged and sent via USPS. Fellow residents at Brookdale could always count on Joan to give them a lift or run an errand for them when she moved there with her car in 2008. She hosted an annual Kentucky Derby party in her independent living apartment and offered her sewing skills freely to those in need of mended buttons and hems. But Joan’s biggest gift was sharing her smile and appreciation to everyone. Always determined to be independent, she tried her best to care for herself even in her final days on the assisted living floor and enjoyed participating in the various activities offered.

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her husband Gerhard Ludwig. In their relationship, she described him as "her rock" of stability and support. They had spent many happy years together living in Squirrel Hill and she had the opportunity to travel to Germany to visit Gerhard’s homeland. Her beloved sister, Barbara Houser, made her transition in December 2024, and Joan often mentioned missing their daily check-in phone calls.

Joan is survived by her son Paul Goode, whom she loved dearly, and nephews Bruce and Mark Weis and their extended families.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church at 40 East Steuben Street, Crafton PA 15205. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.

Arrangements are being handled by FRANK F. DeBOR FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1065 Brookline Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA  15226 (412) 561-0380.

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