Richard Arthur Ludke Sr., 62, of Surprise, AZ, and formerly of Milton, Florida, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 24, 2013, with his loving wife and daughter, and his faithful dog Mushu, by his side. Richard was born on August 18, 1951, in Washington D.C. as the middle child to Richard and Sibyl Ludke. He was raised in Washington D.C. until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. With the military he spent time in Italy. After the military, Richard became a police officer with Metropolitan Police of Washington D.C. He was a very decorated and valiant officer and was even a part of the detail protecting Ronald Regan when there was an assassination attempt. Through his life, Richard also worked for GE, a newspaper in Florida, and also with Home Depot after retirement. Richard met Rhonda in 1995 in Ocala, Florida, as neighbors. After much work by Richard, he and Rhonda found love and were married in 2010. Richard loved motorcycles and rode a Suzuki and a Goldwing and rode as a part of the Blue Knights in Florida. He became “Bike Week Daddy” because he was known for taking care of the girls at the Daytona Bike Week. Richard was also an auction junkie and loved watching NASCAR with his wife. Tony Stewart was his favorite driver. He also enjoyed fishing, computers, and cameras. More than anything, Richard loved his family. Nothing brought him more joy, especially his granddaughter Kailee. Richard is survived by his wife Rhonda Shute Hudson Ludke; son (Retired, Navy) Richard (wife, Yumiko) A. Ludke Jr and their children Tiffany, Hannah; step-son (W-2, Army) Keith (wife, Kerrie) John Hudson Jr and children Brandon and Madison; step-daughter Kasey Jo Hudson; step-son (Sgt, Airforce) Kevin (wife, Beth) Joshua Hudson and daughter Kailee; sister Kathryn Areta Ludke McCollum; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Robert Alan Ludke, and wife Mary Smith Riddle Ludke. A private family memorial service will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of the Valley and the Wounded Warriors Project. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.RegencyMortuary.com.