August 28, 1949 - September 24, 2026
David Ross “Lud” Ludington, 77, of Hot Springs, South Dakota, passed away on September 24, 2026.
Lud was born on August 28, 1949, in Deadwood, South Dakota, to Charles Ludington and Virginia Joslin. He was raised in Igloo, South Dakota, and carried with him throughout his life the grit, independence, and straightforward nature that defined the people of western South Dakota.
Lud proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970, achieving the rank of E-5 and serving during the Vietnam War.
Following his military service, he dedicated himself to a career as an accountant and bookkeeper before later working as a fire captain.
To those who knew him best, Lud was proudly stubborn, undeniably ornery, and fiercely independent. He could be cranky when he wanted to be, but beneath that tough exterior was a man whose greatest priority was always his family. His love for those closest to him never wavered, and it was often expressed in his own simple but meaningful way: “I love you today.”
Lud found joy in the simple things. He was an avid reader of Louis L’Amour novels and loved spending evenings watching old black-and-white westerns. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer for the New Orleans Saints, enjoyed a competitive game of cribbage, took pride in keeping his yard looking its best, and appreciated a cold Miller Lite. He had a fondness for collecting knick-knacks and treasures, and he especially enjoyed spending time with his dogs and watching the ducks, birds, and deer that visited around his home.
He is survived by his children, Benjamin (Cristina) Ludington, Daniel (Katie) Ludington, and Patricia (Norman) Afraid of Bear; and by his seven beloved grandchildren: Sydney, Joaquin, Laela, Draysen, Aron, Addison, and Kennidee.
More than anything else, Lud will be remembered for his love of family. Though he was known for his stubborn streak and colorful personality, those fortunate enough to know him understood the depth of his loyalty, pride, and affection. His memory will live on in the stories shared around family tables, in the lessons he passed along, and in the simple words he so often spoke: “I love you today.”
Committal service will be at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Hill City Cemetery in Hill City, S.D.
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Hot Springs, S.D.