In Loving Memory of Ed Luedke, Ph.D. 12/4/58 - 7/2/02
Ed Luedke passed away on July 2, 2002, after a two and a half year battle with colon cancer. Ed was a big man, in his heart, mind and his 6’8” body. His departure leaves a big space in this world and in our hearts. We miss you Big Ed. Your spirit lives on, and so does your love and your impact on so many people.

Ed had this website created in the summer of 2001 because he wanted others to see that having a serious illness doesn't mean you have to just give up. His colon cancer was not discovered until it had reached an advanced state, and doctors told him he had just two months to live. Ed defied the odds by surviving fifteen times that long. And he did more than survive. In spite of his suffering, Ed was determined to stay involved with life, and felt certain that each moment he could enjoy increased his resistance to the cancer.

Some of Ed’s favorite trips and events occurred during his illness, and these are featured on this website. Ed was an inspiration to anyone facing a daunting challenge. He lived his message-- keep the fire of life burning, and enjoy the precious moments of life as best as you can.

Ed did this even though cancer was never easy for him. For the most part it was an extremely difficult, painful struggle. Fortunately he had a lot of help, and was rarely alone. Throughout his illness Ed’s loved ones, friends and colleagues supported him in many ways. Ed was deeply thankful to all of you, and he recognized your vital role in making his life longer and better.

Please see Ed's Life for a more complete telling of his story. On the other pages you'll find more stories and lots of pictures.

Ed's sister Karen wrote a special poem for her brother. Click here to read it.

If you would like to make a donation on Ed's behalf, please send it to:

USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
1441 Eastlake Avenue, Room 8302
Los Angeles, CA 90033

All dontations should reference "for the research of
Dr. Heinz-Josef Lenz in memory of Edward S. Luedke" so
that they are appropriately applied to his memorial
fund.






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