Gertrude Theresa (Stachowiak) "G. Lucky" Ladewski

June 15, 1928 - Feb. 22, 2002

Gertrude Theresa "G. Lucky" Ladewski, 73, followed the Light at 8:45 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 22, in St. Anthony's Hospital in Michigan City, Ind. She was born on June 15, 1928, in South Bend, Ind., to the late Hattie - (Zell) and Frank Stachowiak. She was preceded in death by her brother, Daniel Stachowiak; and by her two sisters, Victoria (Doris) Sekendy and Genevive Szymarek.

Cherishing her memory is her husband of 56 years, George; her son, Gregory (Sally) Ladewski; daughters, Linda (John) Opaczewski of Mishawaka, Ind., and Joni (Jim) Six. Grandchildren who adored her were Matthew Ladewski of Indianapolis, Ind., Alicia Ladewski, Ronald Nowaczynski of Elkhart, Ind., Christie Nowaczynski, John J. Opaczewski, stationed in Texas, Aubrey Six, Michelle Six, Samantha Six; and one greatgrandchild, Ashley Nowaczynski of Elkhart. G.

Lucky was an "accomplished" woman. As an author and using her pen name of "G. Lucky," her column, "Tell It Like It Is," was highly admired and respected in the two papers in which she wrote: The Polka World and The Polka News. After a bout with cancer, she coordinated, through the polka industry and her column, with 17 states a cancer fund drive in which over $100,000 was raised for cancer research. Lucky and her husband George founded "Polka Partner Records," which opened many a door. Through the polka industry here in South Bend they created "The Polka Power Club." Her thirst for her heritage didn't stop there Genealogy was one of her loves. She co-authored two published books on South Bend genealogy with her sister Gene. Her determination was unstoppable.

Her gold card from the South Bend Public Library for volunteerism proved her love of words. As a composer and musician, Lucky penned many a tune. Her greatest, The Happy Snappy Polka, was recorded by Grammy -winner Jimmy Sturr. Obereks, waltzes and children's songs were part of her long entourage. Her poetry and music will forever be heard and sung.

Those whose life Lucky has touched will forever smile with her. God gave us a Special person and WE are the Lucky Ones. G.I.L.Y

Sources: Ancestry.com, Newspapers.com and FindAGrave.com

08/19/2024 EJS

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/177522466/gertrude-theresa-ladewski