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Best work husband ever!

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One of my first memories of Dave was in my interview and just thinking "This guy might be the kindest human I've ever met." And every time I'm in the car with my kids, I remember Dave's baby shower advice on the value of car time - "That is the time to solve all the problems of the world, when they're in the car..." and it reminds us not to lose that time to the radio, screens, etc. Dave, you will be missed so much around here - thank you for everything you have taught us!

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Having the honor of working with Dave for the last 13 years, I have learned from him a few pearls of wisdom:

1.) If your pants don't fit... buy bigger pants, there's no sense in worrying about it. This seems to be a universal truth - don't worry about the small stuff - just find a reasonable solution and move on.

2.) Do what is best for kids. If you know it's the right thing to do for kids, just do it. Don't worry about how others will perceive it. Trust your gut and do what's best.

3.) Wear comfy shoes.

4.) Be willing to learn something new. It may be uncomfortable and frustrating at times, but if you ask for help and build a good community around you, you will be a better teacher for it!

And lastly, (not teaching related) be a good parent. Listen to your kids, let them make mistakes, but always, always, always tell them how much you love them.

Your calm demeanor and gentle presence have made my days better, and I truly appreciate all the kindness, laughs, and support you have given me over the years.

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Dave, you're an outstanding person, teacher, father, coach, and mentor. Just an upstanding guy with lots of life experiences and words of wisdom. The six years I worked with you were filled with laughter and good advice. I learned a lot from you, from content to life lessons. I remember so many things and so many stories, everything from Jeremiah eating his wrestling helmet, you working on Frank Thomas’s house, suggestions you gave me about teaching and life, and even about adapting instructional practices as I get older. No offense to several great teachers there, but you were definitely somebody I missed talking to about parenting and life after I left. Best wishes in the future!

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Dave, while our tenure together was short, I learned a lot from you. You were a mentor, friend, and patient voice of reason for someone who really needed it in a lot of ways. There are endless stories, laughs, and memories made within the two years we worked together, but this is probably not the best place to discuss them. I hope we get the opportunity to get together and reminisce as you wind down an outstanding career. SWEATHOGS FOREVER!

All the best.

Marco

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I don't know what I'll do without our early morning chats on the way into work. You may have to come here just from 6:20-7:00 am every day to get me through the mornings! You have been such a great sounding board for me and you are always such a calming presence. Your impact around here is immeasurable. Enjoy your time to do all of the yard work and travel you want. You've definitely earned it.

Love,

Heather

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Dave,

Your career in IPSD started in the Warrior wrestling room and then your influence expanded from there. The Warrior wrestling years are filled with great memories and experiences. You have influenced a generation+ of students and athletes. I am fortunate to have ridden along your life path with you. I know you will continue to give back even in retirement.

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Though we have never met my daughter Chloe has loved your AP U.S. History class. She says that you are so knowledgeable and that she is amazed by all the details and stories you share on the new topics you teach every week. You have continued to inspire her love of history and she feels so fortunate to have had you as her teacher in your last year before retirement.

Gretta Stables

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I hope you enjoy retirement and I look forward to seeing you in the tri-city area! I have enjoyed our conversations throughout the years. I hope to have your perspective when I am at the end of my career. You make a positive impact on everyone's daily experience. Good luck and enjoy every minute!

-Tyler Ruschmeyer

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Congratulations, Dave! Enjoy your retirement to the fullest!

-Patti H

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True professional in everything that you do! It has been an honor to work with you here at Metea. Your passion for students, and class in the manner in which you get your message across with be missed! Best of luck moving forward, enjoy your time and have some fun!

-- Bob Vozza

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I am so happy for you as you embark on a new beginning in your life! You have touched many lives here at Metea and will in your future endeavors. I wish you and your family all the best.

~Tom Daugherty

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Dave, Congratulations on your retirement! Loved working with you with supporting our MV students. You were always so easy to talk to about situations and super helpful. Best wishes in all that life has to offer! Enjoy retirement! - Liska

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You have been a huge influence on our department and I am so excited for you and Sarah to start this next phase of life. I was always able to come talk to you and hear your expert advice. You have a calming effect on me when I get stressed :) Thanks Dave! Please keep in touch. Your 33 years of students and colleagues are better because of you!

Sue

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Dave, I always appreciated your calm demeanor and approach...from working with kids to problem solving unique situations. You were always kind and level headed, no matter the situation. From the wresting room to the classroom, class act every day! I enjoyed working with you and wish you nothing but the best!

Mark Jager

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You have always been a rock solid example of professionalism, character, and relationship building. You have made us all better by being here, and you will certainly be missed.

Thanks - Don P

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Thanks for doing what is best for kids. So many of my students in Public Speaking chose YOU as one of their people for their Humans of Metea Valley presentation, which is a testament to how much they respect and admire you and your teaching. I've appreciated the care and concern you have shown to a student that we both share this year and how much you want all of your students to succeed. Best wishes for the best retirement!

~Megan Hall

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Dave- I cannot believe that you are leaving me! I have loved working on a team with you for the past 10 years. You have been a wonderful co-worker and collaborator. Our love of Justin Timberlake united us but your kindness and friendship have sustained us. From many early morning - totally school appropriate- conversations with Bridget, to PLC meetings, to quick check ins, you've been a fantastic mentor. I will miss you immensely. Enjoy what the next chapter has to bring!

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Dave,

I've only known you for two short years but every interaction I've had with you has always been so positive. It's always been so fun talking to you about football, teaching, life, and everything in general! You've always been someone who's been willing to help everyone in the department! Wishing you the best in retirement!

Usayd Koshul

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Dave,

Congrats on hitting the finish line! Our family paths have crossed in a number of ways (GHS, STCE x2, MVHS, family friends, etc.), and it's been a pleasure getting to know you and yours! Enjoy the time off! Come mow my lawn if you're bored.

Sean McCurtain

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Dave,

You will for sure be missed. There are so many things to say, but just know that you have had a tremendous impact on my personal and professional life. I know that I am not the only one. Thanks for taking a chance on me many years ago to be your student teacher. You truly taught me how to be a great educator and to just be myself within the classroom. You deserve a retirement that you can follow your other passions and get to spend more time with your family. As you always say "Hallways Always" these hallways are going to miss you.

Chris

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Lead Key,

We’ve known each other for 30 years.  We have coached together, taught at the same schools for 90% of our careers, played fantasy football, fantasy basketball, confidence pools with Liberace and the Michelin man. I have coached with your wife.   Why me???  We have gone fishing, played cards (saw a person win a roll of quarters in 1999 before I went to the hospital and Barbie had Raegan.  You’ve seen me write checks for 700.00 dollars.  We’ve done a lot and throughout all of this you are a great dad, friend, co-worker and amazing teacher.  When we first started we all talked about, “Man it’ll be a long time before we get there!”, but it’s all been fun and many great memories, and so, here we are.  I wish you all the best and enjoy the last few days, then relax and enjoy every second!!! God Bless you and your family!!! Many happy and healthy years left to enjoy your well deserved break!!  Cut the crap Jim and enjoy retirement!  You’re the best and take care!  Forever amazed at your calm cool headedness. I hope I have added as much joy to the last 30 years as you have for me!!  Wool

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It's been a pleasure to be your colleague the last 7 years, Dave! I'm forever appreciative of your calming energy and influence, your consistent willingness to listen to anyone who needs an ear, and your dedication to being a fun and engaging teacher for your students. The advice and mentorship you've provided me since I got to MVHS has been invaluable and I'll never be able to thank you enough. I hope we can stay in touch even after you leave us.

I'm so happy for you to begin retirement. I hope it's filled with lots of relaxation, laughter and happiness. You deserve nothing less.

You're the man, Dave!

-Mike

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Hey Dave, I'm not sure this space can do justice about what you have meant to me and everyone at MV & IPSD 204, but I think you know!! It will definitely be quiet next year (and years after) in D211 and on the apush team without you. But as the General says, "Life moves on" and you will be moving on to a great new stage in your life. The best thing is that we will continue to get together on Fridays and at other times, so it is not goodbye but just so long at MV for us! You are the best, Scott

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Congratulations, Dave! It's been so much fun working alongside you over these years -- whether as two people who apparently always had classrooms next to each other, whether as an honorary member of the Social Studies Department when I taught AmSoc, or whether sharing a frosty beverage at a watering hole watching a soccer match with The Terrier... I always appreciated you good humor and your sincere kindness toward everybody you come into contact with -- students and colleagues alike.

Excited for your next chapter!

- Adam

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Being able to open Metea Valley with Dave so early in my career was a blessing as I got to see what a true teacher who believed in building relationships with students is all about. I will never forget sitting at Indian Plains and trying to get our original SS staff over the rope Don set up, but from that early onset I saw a mentor and role model for how to truly educate students. Dave, I am grateful for the morning conversations we have had over the years as we both get to MV bright and early. The jokes, the serious talks, and the passion for teaching are all things I will take with me as you walk out of MV. Your support for the MV soccer programs is evident by your constant invite to our teacher appreciation games. Thank you for just being you and setting a path for all of at MV. Enjoy retirement, feel free to come back early and talk to Heather and I before school, and good luck!

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The last ten years having you as a office mate has been wonderful. I have always appreciated the conversations, banter, and insights we've shared together. I am so excited for you to start a whole new chapter in life; one that gives you more time to focus on your and yours! Enjoy retirement! And know, we'll always be here if you miss us and want to sub (I hope you're too busy having fun to do that, though!). You have made your mark on us all (students and teachers), I so hope you know that as you say goodbye. Your impact has been made! ~Erin Drufke

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Happy retirement, Dave!!! Thank you for being Jason’s friend for all these years! I will Venmo the final payment this week!!! 😜. In all honesty, you’ve been such a great friend! Based on your character, I’m confident that you have had a positive influence on all your students. Enjoy retirement! You deserve it!!!

Eileen Wargo

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Congratulations and Good Luck Dave! Thank you for serving our Mustangs! I have really enjoyed hearing you reflect on your years of teaching. Your demeanor, thoughtfulness and hard work will be dearly missed. It has been a blessing to work with you. Enjoy your well deserved retirement! Go Go Mustangs!

- DeBruycker

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David Christopher Luedtke, Jr IS a master teacher. It has been a joy these last 32 plus years to be by your side. You are the calm, wise voice in the family who has plenty of history stories to attach to “life lessons.”  I am so glad you had to go to Metea: your tenure at MVHS is now your legacy and the best part of your career! Love, S

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David Christopher Luedtke, Jr IS a master teacher. It has been a joy these last 32 plus years to be by your side. You are the calm, wise voice in the family who has plenty of history stories to attach to “life lessons.”  I am so glad you had to go to Metea: your tenure at MVHS is now your legacy and the best part of your career! Love, S

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Coach,

Who would've thought when the first day I walked into MV with a broken toe, I would be organizing the Dave Luedtke appreciation day. Also, who would've thought that when Don asked you to make me your buddy and show me the ropes of MV that things would've grown much more than that. I didn't think I wanted to coach at the middle school level, but you pushed me early on to give it a try and now its is actually kinda my niche. Thanks for everything you have done for me personally and professionally. When you get the DL landscaping business up and running, you can come and beautify my yard.....at a significant discount of course! Work smarter not harder coach.

Wargo

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So thankful for the countless hours of teaching, coaching, and guidance you’ve given me over the years. You’ve been the biggest role model in my life and will forever be grateful to call you dad. I’m hearing you’re a legend at MV, I can only imagine all the lives you’ve touched during your time there. Your endless support in Jordan and I’s life does not go unnoticed and I cannot be more excited for you in this next chapter of your life.

-Josh

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Dave,

Believe it or not, I've known you for 25 years when I came to Waubonsie and was able to join the wrestling staff with you as freshman coach. You did a great job! Unfortunately, I did not see you much in the SS classroom, but I NEVER heard a negative comment about you or your teaching/coaching style. I'm glad we were able to connect again at Metea, even though it was "tell Luedtke this or tell Luedtke that." Congratulations not only to you, but your family! Retirement.....YOU'RE GOING TO LOVE IT!

~Hutch

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Dad,

You have impacted so many lives as an educator for so many years. I feel so incredibly fortunate to have you as a parent, mentor, and friend. You were my first and favorite teacher. You have taught me so much about teaching, sports, and how to be a good person. I owe who I am as a person and teacher because of you. Now, I can also take all you taught me about sports into my first official coaching job. Dad, being your daughter is the greatest gift. Thank you for being such an inspiration and light to so many people. Love, J

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I couldn't help but plagiarize the title because I'm not as elite as the man who we are all here to celebrate. Maybe one day...

Thank you for welcoming me into the family with open arms and all of the wonderful things that you have done for me in this past year. A quick glance at this message board really only scratches the surface in terms of the positive impact you've made on thousands of peoples' lives.

I know it can be a bit poignant and bittersweet when these transitions in life unfold, but I know you will continue to grow, adapt, and succeed as you move on into this next phase, just as you did through the different stages in your teaching career. You're going to flourish and love this next stage! I can't wait to be apart of it.

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined.” -Henry David Thoreau

Love,

Aaron

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Mr. Luedtke,

Congratulations on such an amazing accomplishment. Although you were never my teacher, I will never forget the handy work you taught me working on the fixer upper house. Those are skills I will use until the day I retire and get to pass them on to my kids and their friends.

You may not have been my teacher, but you were my favorite 7v7 coach of all time… or with the exception of one game, a wrestling coach😂. The leadership skills you passed on to us are what helped develop me into the man I am today.

Thank you for all you’ve done.

Joe Manzella

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Luedtke – Congratulations on your upcoming retirement! Whether it’s back to the days when you were coaching the Warriors at WV, the year we spent together at Granger (‘05-‘06), the years here at Metea as Mustangs or just three years ago when we were standing together on opening day celebrating milestones -my 25 years and your 30 years, you have always been a positive example for all of us. I remember saying to you as we stood in front of the Auditorium stage- just three more and you smiled. I knew you would make the next and final three just as great as the first thirty. While you may not remember this, I have a key memory from my time with the Grizzlies.  During the year I spent at Granger, we had a handful of extra meetings and a lot of additional work as that was the year 8th grade graduation changed to promotion ceremonies. Emotions among many were high and I vividly recall sitting in a room with an upset team.  I was doing my best to reassure them, and I looked at you with a ‘please save me’ expression. You jumped in and your calming voice paired with your level-headed guidance, regained their focus.  You told them it was all going to work out and we moved forward.  And, 18 years later, you were exactly right- it all worked out quite well.  Your team, then and now, respects you and very much values your opinion and advice. Your kindness, thoughtfulness, easy-going demeanor, and genuine care for colleagues and students has been a gift to all of us. I am better, as are countless others, for having worked with and known you.  As you are relaxing, take a moment occasionally, to think of all of us on Sunday nights– ha! Live it up and enjoy your friends and family, you’ve earned it! I wish you all the best in your retirement. You are one of the good ones, Luedtke!

Congrat’s again,

Jader

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Sending you all kinds of love and CONGRATULATIONS from The White House. I am so thankful for our time working together at old Granger and the new building. Those old Granger days are my absolute fave. So many fun memories. I have always appreciated your easy going manner, humor, and wisdom. Wishing you and your family all the best as you begin this new stage of life. Hugs and love, Lynne White

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Since transferring to Metea Valley, you have been a constant in my professional life. You are patient, kind, consistent, and genuine. You have a calming influence and bring levity to situations that feel out of control. Thank you for always being there to listen and to offer advice - whether it's trying to grade AP History writing, talking out lesson plan ideas, fixing home "improvement" issues, or discussing parenting situations, you've helped me grow as a professional and as a person. You will be greatly missed, and I wish you all the best.

Best wishes,

Erin Matus

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Coach Luedtke,

It has been my pleasure to not only be a colleague of yours for 29 years, but a friend as well. From listening to your Social Studies lessons, to coaching wrestling together (and winning a couple championships), flag football and the many and much needed guys trips to various locations, we have had some good times and laughs. I wish you joy and happiness in your retirement!!! Keep in touch and stop by once in a while so I can get some Luedtke wisdom.

Congratulations!!!!

Doug Burson

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When I was teaching 9th grade Honors World History, I could always spot a "Luedtke" kid from 8th grade. They knew how to write, participate, and enjoy learning. They came to the WV excited to learn History. This was all because of the great middle school experience they had learning history in Dave's class. I would ask some of them, "Was Dave Luedtke your teacher?" and they would respond, "YES, HE IS THE BEST!" I whole heartily agree. Thanks Dave for preparing 8th graders for high school. Enjoy your well earned retirement. Kelly Rose

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Best of luck to you, Dave. Know that you will be missed for your tireless work eithic, willingness to help others, and gentle smile. Most of all, your honest and sincere kindness to all was most appreciated, especially when turned toward me. :) I appreciate all our work and conversations through the years, and I hope your retirement is relaxing and filled with joy. After this long career, you deserve it!

All the best, big guy! You will be missed!

Kristan Crawford

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Dave! Where to begin! I can’t believe the day is finally here that you are at retirement. I know we are meant to meet people at certain times in life, and your wisdom, sense of humor, and mentorship came at the perfect time. You are a true gift in my life, and I know that any student that got to have you, along with any colleague and friend that gets to cross paths with you, are one of the lucky ones. Now you get to move onto new adventures, and a whole new world awaits! You’re the best Dave. I could not have asked for a better “work dad” and thank you for everything. Congratulations and I hope you celebrate big!! -Bridget

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Thank you for being such a support during my five years at MV. You were a joy to work with! It's an honor to call you colleague and friend. I wish you the best as you move onto your new chapter in life. Best wishes Dave! Love ya, Alyssa Battaglia

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Congratulations on your retirement! I feel honored to have gotten to know you and hear about your wonderful family. We have had come great conversations in the office, I think we solved a lot of issues. 🧐 From talking about our families, sports, world events, retirement, and school it was always a good time. I wish you all the best now you have the time to do all the things you want without any limitations. You are inspiration to your students and a great mentor to colleagues. Enjoy a long and healthy retirement!

-Kathy

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Dave has been absolutely amazing to work with over my six years at Metea. He ALWAYS had something funny to say or encouraging words for you if he could tell you were struggling. Over this past school year, as Dave joined our United States History team, he consistently went out of his way to praise the work we were doing as a team and consistently reminded myself that it is essential to remind people of the good they are doing. It means a lot.

In addition, Dave's four keys to being a successful teacher have been on my mind throughout this school year:

1. Find your allies.

2. Ask questions

3. Work hard

4. Laugh everyday

In all honesty, these are the keys to just living a fulfilling life.

Dave, thanks for everything! You truly have been an absolute force to work with! We will miss you here at Metea Valley more than you will truly know.

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Congratulations on your next life chapter! We have been very lucky to have you part of our Mustang Mastery family over the years! Having the opportunity to see you with our students and forming a great student/teacher relationship, is the tribute to you as a life long teacher! Enjoy all these new adventures and can't wait to hear about the fun!! You will be greatly missed here in this building! - Liz Main

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Mr Luedtke, congratulations on such an amazing and well earned accomplishment. There is no doubt in my mind that you have changed the lives of so many young men & women, including myself. I’m beyond excited for your next steps and the journey that you are going to embark on in your new & near future. Although I never had you as a teacher in school, I was blessed to be able to have you as a teacher & mentor in my everyday life. The amount of lessons I learned just listening to you on the porch, at the fixer house, and after football games are memories and lessons that I will pass on to my family for years to come. However, the lesson I remember teaching you that I don’t believe you’ll soon forget is that the spice cabinet always goes on the left side of the stove for easy access when cooking…

With love,

Sammy S

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I wish you many years of rest, relaxation, and doing whatever Dave wants to do! I know the years have gone by so fast since we first worked together at the "old" Granger. I have many fond memories of our time there.

Thank you for your many years of teaching and giving so much to your students.

I hope you find peace and happiness in your well deserved retirement! You will love Sunday nights!! ❤️

Congratulations!

Kathy Volk

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Dave,

Congrats on your retirement. How time flies. When I started at Granger you were one of the first people to welcome me. It has been a joy and pleasure getting to know you over the years. We all have benefited from working with you. Having the opportunity to see you in action the year we shared a room was amazing. Then finding out we both have a love for South Haven. Enjoy your well deserved retirement. Thank you for everything.

Dwight N.

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Governor Luedtke

You've been such a great example to me over the 9 years I've been at MV. Those first few years being part of US History team were great. You always had great ideas to share and it was evident how passionate for teaching and the students you have been throughout your career. I will not get used to your retirement, it will feel a little bit emptier at MV without you. You've earned this and I hope retirement treats you well.

Slager