On a beautiful sunny morning, October 12,1990 in Manistee, Michigan, Christian Michael Ludwig came into to this world to Charles and Sandra (Fortelka) Ludwig. He returned to his Savior on September 11, 2022. The youngest of 3 boys he was a competitor from the start.  In fact, he insisted at 3 years old that the training wheels be taken off of his bicycle to better keep up with his older brothers.  Later in his youth, he played MRA hockey and could out rollerblade his older brothers.  Usually by half a city block.   Although he was a fierce competitor, he learned the importance of the Team.  In 2009 he graduated from Manistee Catholic Central High School and when he was a senior, he was interviewed by FOX sports as he was part of the 2008 Manistee Catholic Central Saber football team that had gone undefeated.  He told the interviewer with all sincerity that "Manistee Catholic Central wasn't just a school, we are a family".  It was this approach to life that he carried, he never met a stranger and every friend was like extended family.  He was always willing to help out.  He saw the importance of help when he traveled to New Orleans with a youth group to assist with Hurricane Katrina cleanup.

He loved hunting with his family, grandfather, uncles and cousins.  But most loved fishing with his friends.  Being on the water or in the woods is where Christian found his peace.  As he was struggling with life, kayaking on the river with friends gave him the most happiness and contentment.

Christian had the most infectious smile, which got him out of more than one tight spot with his parents and brothers.  He took joy in the people he loved.  Many extended moms and dads loved him back and wanted the best for him.

Christian is survived by his parents; Charles and Sandra (Fortelka) Ludwig of Manistee, MI, two brothers and sister's in-law; Travis and Michelle Ludwig and Joshua and Ariel Ludwig all of Manistee, MI, his maternal grandfather; Michael Fortelka of Manistee, MI, five nieces and nephews; Damien, Alexander, Felix, Claire and Charlotte. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins also survive him.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother; Nancy Fortelka, his paternal grandparents, James and Polly Ludwig; and by his two uncles; Wayne and Billy Fortelka.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, September 19 2022 at 11:30 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Manistee with Reverend Zeljko Guberovic celebrant. Burial will follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery also in Manistee. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday morning, one hour prior to the mass.

All of his family and friends are comforted by the fact that he is with our Lord, is at peace and has left his earthly bounds behind him.  Fly high our newest angel, check on us often and watch your nieces and nephews grow.

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.