Ludwig Pochardt

Ludwig Carl “Sarge” Pochardt son of Bert and Louise (Reimann) Pochardt, was born September 17, 1916 in Lynd, Minnesota. He grew up in Johnson, MN, and was baptized in Island Lake, and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church. Sarge attended school in Johnson and worked at the Horning family farm and farmed his own 160 acres until entering the Army on June 30, 1942. He served in World War II in Northern France, Germany, and Central Europe. He attained the rank of Sergeant and participated in the Battle of the Bulge under General Patton. He received a Good Conduct Medal and European Theatre medal with 3 Bronze Stars. He was discharged October 21, 1945 and returned to Morris. He was united in marriage to Eleanor Goldie Anderson on January 1, 1943, to this union four children were born. He worked at Home Builders Co. installing flooring and countertops. Sarge continued this work even after he began employment at the Post Office on June 11, 1955. His many flooring customers appreciated his good work and postal customers his kind and courteous manner. He retired from the Post Office in 1986 after 31 years of service.

Sarge was a member of the American Legion, the VFW and Eagles, as well as the US Postal Union.

He enjoyed gardening, bird watching, wood working, bingo, casino trips, auctions, spending time with his family, and especially dancing with the love of his life, Eleanor his wife of 67 years. He also enjoyed the time spent with friends in the community.

Sarge died on Friday, September 24, 2010 at West Wind Village in Morris, MN, having lived to reach the age of 94 years.

He is survived by his wife: Eleanor Pochardt of Morris; children: Bob (Julie) Pochardt of Pelican Rapids, Jack (Barb) Pochardt of Plymouth, Deb (Gary) Hanson of New London and Don (Cori) Pochardt of Mendota Heights; brothers: Marvin (Beverly) Pochardt of Starbuck and Harold (Delores) Pochardt of Mesa, AZ; sisters: Amanda Schmidt of Herman, Myrtle (Clarence) Anderson of Cedar, Darlene Hagestuen of Starbuck and Marlys Dalager of Glenwood; grandchildren: Bryan (Diane) Pochardt, Vonnie (Bill) Husted, Jodi (Jason) Rosati, Corey Hanson and Mackenzie Pochardt; great-grandchildren: Weston Pochardt, Kiara Pochardt, Amanda Husted, Mason Husted, Emily Rosati and Jackson Rosati and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers: Emil, Eldon, Vernon and Raymond and two sisters: Johanna and Emily.

Pallbearers for the service are Dean Olhoft, Rick Pochardt, Gary Smith, Ryan Smith, Chad Smith and Kenny Kellen. Honorary Pallbearers are all of Sarge’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Deb Mahoney will serve as organist for the service. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of arrangements.