Jeanette Luedde

Jeanette Luedde, née Merz, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the age of 87. She was the devoted mother of Linda (Ron) Malin, the late Michael (Yvette) Luedde, the late Cynthia (Jack) Huelskamp, Jaqueline (David) Chronister, Perry (Ruth) Luedde, the late Gerald “Baby Gerry” Luedde, and Christine (Paul) Flam. A cherished grandmother of 11 and blessed great-grandmother of six, with a seventh on the way, she is also survived by many dear relatives and friends. She was the dear sister of the late Robert “Shutters” Merz, the late Shirley Kuhn, née Merz, the late Clarence Merz, the late Marilyn Kaelin, née Merz, and the late Richard Merz, and the precious daughter of the late Valentine and Rose, née LeGrand, Merz.

Born in St. Louis in May 1938, Jeanette was the penultimate child welcomed into the Merz family. A graduate of Bishop DuBourg High School, she carried a lifelong love of reading, always carrying books with her and losing herself in both fiction and nonfiction. Family and friends admired her remarkable gift for storytelling, which she filled with warmth and laughter.

Jeanette had a natural talent for turning ordinary moments into sources of joy. Known for her humor and playful spirit, she brought lightness and delight to those around her, her laughter serving as a gentle reminder to embrace life’s brighter side.

Above all, she treasured her roles as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her nurturing presence and deep affection created a lasting legacy that will be remembered fondly by all who knew her. She was lovingly regarded as the best mother-in-law, a reflection of her welcoming heart and generous spirit.