Emily Lasance Ludwig

Emily Lasance Ludwig, 38, of St. Charles, MO, passed away unexpectedly on July 28, 2023, due to brain damage sustained after a rogue tire collided with her on the highway on the evening of July 22. Her family and friends are overcome with shock and deep sorrow at this sudden loss. Emily's untimely departure leaves an irreplaceable void, and her memory will forever be cherished by those who held her close.

Born in St. Louis, MO, on May 1, 1985, Emily was a graduate of the Academy of the Sacred Heart (‘99) and Duchesne High School (‘03). She pursued her higher education at the University of Missouri St. Louis, earning two Bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Social Work and a Master's degree in Social Work.

Emily is survived by her loving parents, Donna and Robert, her devoted siblings, Betsy and Daniel, her cherished nephews, Tyler, Jacob, and Leland, and her brother-in-law, Andrew Clark, who loved her like his own sister. She held a special place in her heart for her godsons, Max and Hosia, as well as her dear friends, Sarah Marie Coogan and Elise Scheu. She also shared her home and affection with her two beloved cats, Baxter and Hector. Emily's vibrant spirit attracted a multitude of friends who will miss her immensely. Her capacity for love had no boundaries, and she demonstrated unwavering loyalty to those she held dear.

Emily dedicated her career to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Her commitment to her work was unwavering, and she passionately served the homeless population in St. Louis through her outreach efforts. Her compassion and dedication touched the lives of countless individuals who were struggling with mental health and substance use. Emily's clients weren't just clients; they were people she cared deeply about, offering them hope, support, and a sense of belonging.

Emily embodied the spirit of adventure and lived life to the fullest. She had a deep passion for travel, exploration, trying new things, and a love for music. From attending street fairs and concerts to savoring surf and turf dinners, enjoying game nights and bingo to embarking on skydiving adventures or going for a swim, Emily had an insatiable thirst for life's experiences. Her laughter was infectious, and her fearlessness inspired all who knew her. 

Moreover, her intellectual curiosity shone brightly, as she was known for her love of reading, her talent for critical thinking, and her penchant for writing poetry and keeping journals. Emily's creative spirit extended to her passion for making intricate mosaics, and she found solace and inspiration in the realms of the mind and meditation, fostering a deeper connection to her inner self.

In her passing, Emily continued her legacy of giving. She was an organ donor, offering her heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys to five recipients in need. Her pancreas was donated for research, reflecting her enduring commitment to making a positive impact, even after her passing.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Emily's life will be held on Sunday, September 10th, 2023, at 3pm in the Shrine of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne at the Academy of the Sacred Heart, 619 N. 2nd St, St. Charles, MO 63301. Following the service, a reception will take place at 4pm in the White Center Cafeteria. All who wish to honor Emily are invited to attend and encouraged to share stories and photos that capture her spirit. Details about her memorial, as well as updates about the ongoing highway investigation, will be shared on her Facebook memorial page at www.facebook.com/groups/emilylasanceludwig.

Contributions in memory of Emily can be made at www.gofundme.com/in-loving-memory-of-emily-ludwig. Her family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to those who have already contributed. Beyond enabling them to plan Emily’s memorial, these funds will continue to support her family during this challenging time.

Emily's memory will forever be a guiding light for her family and friends, reminding them to be kind, open-minded, and brave as they navigate life without her physical presence. Her vibrant, beautiful, and caring spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In the wake of this devastating tragedy, let us remember the joyful, brilliant, and adventurous soul that was Emily Lasance Ludwig. She may be gone from our sight, but her love and impact will remain with us always. ❤️