André Ludwig – Gerontology Research Group

FRANCE supercentenarian data

Full name: André Ludwig
Lifespan: 06.06.1912 – 07.01.2014
Age: 111 years, 215 days
Birthplace: La Ferte-sous-Jouarre, Seine-et-Marne Department, Ile-de-France, France
Last residence: Longue-Jumelles, Maine-et-Loire Department, Pays de la Loire, France
Application date: 17.11.2023
Validation date: 18.12.2023
Validation source: Sylvain Grosgeorge

Biography

Andre Ludwig, born on June 6, 1912, in La Ferte-sous-Jouarre, Seine-et-Marne, Ile-de-France, France, emerged into a world marked by resilience, sacrifice, and a commitment to justice.

Orphaned at an early age, Andre never knew his parents, finding solace and guidance in the love of his grandmother, who undertook the responsibility of raising him. His journey into adulthood led him to work as a trainee printer, eventually transitioning into the role of a fitter.

In 1935, Andre entered a new chapter of life when he married Yvonne. The couple welcomed a daughter, who, as of 2015, was approximately 80 years old. Despite the joys of family life, circumstances led to a poignant separation, with Andre losing contact with his daughter at the age of 20.

World War II

The onset of World War II brought profound challenges and tests of resilience for Andre. Mobilized in 1939, he faced the grim reality of war, becoming a prisoner in Epinal, Vosges, Grand Est, and subsequently deported to Poland. Despite the hardships, Andre’s indomitable spirit shone through. In 1942, he executed a daring escape, only to be recaptured and endure an additional 40 days in jail. Undeterred, he found himself in a labor camp in Germany but managed to escape once more, rejoining the French Resistance in the eastern part of the country.

Andre’s life story is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure, resist, and strive for justice even in the face of adversity. His actions during World War II exemplify bravery, resilience, and a commitment to protecting those he loved.

As we reflect on Andre Ludwig’s journey, we honor not only his personal sacrifices but also his contribution to the larger narrative of resistance and resilience during a tumultuous period in history.

Later life

Andre Ludwig’s journey through life is a testament to resilience, joy, and an unyielding spirit that has propelled him through the pages of history.

Completing his professional career as a middle manager, Ludwig embraced retirement in 1972, relocating with his wife to Longue-Jumelles. Known for his fondness for playing boule de fort, Ludwig entered the centenarian phase of life with vitality and enthusiasm.

Even in the face of life’s challenges, Ludwig maintained a positive outlook. At the age of 100, he faced the loss of his wife, yet he stood strong, attesting, “I’ve never been ill in my life, or at least, I don’t remember it.”

Living independently in his home at the remarkable age of 102, Ludwig’s resilience continued to shine. His philosophy on longevity was simple yet profound: “You just have to live happily with your memories.”

Transitioning to the nursing home of Longue-Jumelles in February 2017, Ludwig embraced each day with a remarkable zest for life. Celebrating his 106th birthday in 2018, he exhibited resilience despite some hearing challenges, leaving us with the wisdom that a joyful life and cherished memories contribute to lasting well-being.

A true testament to his indomitable spirit, Ludwig faced a femur fracture at the age of 109, quipping about a pair of slippers, “I will have to walk on my hands to wear them out!”

As of his 111th birthday Andre Ludwig held the title of the oldest known living man in France, the oldest known living man in Europe, and the oldest known living World War II veteran globally. Residing in Longue-Jumelles, Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la Loire, France, Andre Ludwig continued to inspire us all with his remarkable journey and unwavering spirit, making him the oldest known living person in Maine-et-Loire and the third-oldest known living person in Pays de la Loire.

Andre Ludwig passed away in Longue-Jumelles, Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la loire, France, on January 7, 2024, at the age of 111 years, 315 days. He was the oldest living man in Europe and the third oldest validated living man behind Juan Vicente Perez Mora and Gisaburo Sonobe.

Longevity Titles

Doyen of France (28.12.2022 – 07.01.2024)
Oldest living man in Europe (22.02.2023 – 07.01.2024)
Oldest living World War II veteran (15.11.2023 – 07.01.2024)

Validation

The age of Andre Ludwig was meticulously examined and verified by Mr. Sylvain Grosgeorge GRG-France Correspondent, and validated by the GRG as of December 18, 2023.