About Us ...

On November 4, 1983, my oldest brother, Walter, took his own life. My life, as I had known it, was changed forever. As a nineteen-year-old sophomore in college, trying to deal with the loss and comprehend his actions was difficult. Then, seven years later, I lost another brother, Eddie, to AIDS.

As the ten-year anniversary of Walter's passing neared, I began to realize that there must be a reason that my family had lost two wonderful human beings. I knew that their deaths must have a purpose in life. I always remember my Aunt Betty telling me that if Walter's death could save one other person's life, then his death was meaningful and worth the pain and suffering my family had to experience. I knew something good must come from our loss.

In memory of my brother Eddie, the Edward Luedke Memorial Scholarship was started. It is given to students at Washingtonville Senior High School who have demonstrated excellence and are pursuing an education in the field of medicine or public health. The same year, the Walter Luedke Memorial Golf Classic began and has become an annual event. The proceeds raised from the golf outing are used to help worthy local causes and charities.

In order to better serve the community, I decided to combine these memorials and create a foundation in memory of my two brothers. In December 1999, New York State approved my application for a not-for-profit corporation and The Walter and Edward Luedke (WEL) Memorial Foundation was established. The WEL Foundation is committed to perpetuating the scholarship and serving the people and organizations in our community who need our assistance.

As I look back, I know that the loss of my two brothers has touched the lives of many people. The pain and sorrow I have felt for almost two decades has been eased, knowing that other lives have been helped.

John F. Luedke - President