Vernita A. “Nita” Lueken, 92, Ferdinand

Vernita A. “Nita” Lueken, 92, of Ferdinand, passed away Saturday, March 22nd, at Scenic Hills at the Monastery in Ferdinand.

Vernita was born on September 7, 1932, in Mariah Hill to Simon and Philomena (Seifert) Nord.

She was united in marriage to Oliver Lueken on August 18, 1951, in Mary Help Of Christians Church in Mariah Hill. Oliver preceded her in death on June 13, 2008.

Nita was a member of Christ the King Parish, St. Ferdinand Church and St. Ann’s Sodality. She and Oliver owned and operated The Covered Bridge Tavern for over 35 years. She organized Tuesday Euchre night at the Ferdinand Legion. Her past times included crocheting, quilting, puzzles, and playing cards while listening and singing to the radio. 

She is survived by three daughters, Linda (Bill) Shaneyfelt of Jasper, Sharon (Phil) Lindauer of Ferdinand and Donna (Gordon) Durcholz of Newburgh; one son, Ralph (Sharon) Lueken of Ferdinand; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was the last surviving member of her family.

She was also preceded in death by one son, Paul Lueken, siblings, Loretta Nord, Emil Nord, Edna Roll, Velma Grundhoefer, Francis “Bencie” Nord, Jerome “Jim” Nord, Bernice Smith, and Sylvester “Vestie” Nord.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in St. Ferdinand Church, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 until 11:00 a.m. EDT in the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters Of St. Benedict.

Online condolences may be shared at www.becherfuneralhome.com.