Dorice M. Ludes

Dorice "Dorie" Mae Ludes (Tourville) of Combined Locks, WI was born in Duluth, MN on March 3, 1930 and went home to eternal rest on May 5, 2026.

Dorie grew up in a large, faith-filled, Catholic family where music, dancing, singing, laughter, and card games were woven into everyday life. After graduating from high school, she moved with her family to Kimberly, WI, where a new chapter of her life began. But the lively, creative spirit of her Duluth roots stayed with her throughout her life.

Dorie was married to Edmund (Mike) Ludes and was the mother of six children, Anne, Catherine, Steve, Laurie, Joan, and Mary. Her life leaves behind many memories for her family, grandchildren, and the generations that follow. Each person who loved her will carry their own memories of who she was and the moments they shared with her.

She had a friendly way about her and made people feel welcome. Anyone who knew Dorie knew her infectious laugh. It was the kind of laugh that made other people laugh, too. People often commented on it, saying, “She has the best laugh.” At times, that joy would spill over into song or dance, reflecting the music-filled family roots that helped shape her.

Dorie also enjoyed many of life’s quiet blessings, being near water (especially Lake Superior), reading, and walks that took in the beauty of the world around her. She loved sweets, especially chocolate and ice cream.

In her later years at Prairie Home Memory Care, Dorie’s cheerful spirit continued to shine. Her laughter, singing, and presence brought smiles to both staff and residents, and she became part of the life and community there in her own special way. The Ludes family gives sincere thanks to the Prairie Home staff that so lovingly cared for her for almost four years.

Faith was an integral part of Dorie’s life. She loved Jesus and was devoted to her Catholic faith. For many years, she taught CCD and Religious Education classes, sharing her faith with children and helping guide them in their own spiritual journeys. Dorie was also a leader in the pro-life movement in Northeast Wisconsin and participated in the early Walks for Life in Washington, DC. Faith and music also came together through the St. Paul’s choir, where Dorie and Mike sang for many years.

Dorie will be deeply missed by her children, Cathy Squires, Steve (Bobbie) Ludes, Laurie Van Asten, Joan (Tom) Zierler, Mary (Steve) Hamilton; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; her brother, Ken (Barb) Tourville; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Dorie is preceded in death by her husband, Edmund “Mike” Ludes; her daughter, Anne Hocking; her son-in-law, Greg Albrecht; her granddaughter, Amy Van Asten; and her siblings, Jean (Bob) Farrell, Claude (Carol) Tourville, and Marguerite “Peggy” (Harold) Routhieaux.

A funeral visitation will be held for Dorie from 2-4 PM on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at St. Paul Catholic Church, 410 Wallace St, Combined Locks, WI 54113 with a mass to follow at 4 PM. Dorie will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Oshkosh, WI at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Vida Parent Support Services in Appleton in respect to Dorie’s wishes.

We remember Dorie with gratitude for the laughter, faith, music, talents, and memories she leaves behind. May she now rest in peace, giving glory to God in the Kingdom of Heaven.