James Robert Ludwig passed away peacefully at his home at 2:21am on November 13, 2021. James was born on November 30, 1929, in Chicago, IL, to Frank and Agnes Ludwig. He grew up on Nepil Avenue in Wheaton, IL.
James was an Army veteran. After attending Wheaton Central High School, James joined the Army on July 9, 1947, and did basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. While in the Army, James received his High School diploma. James’ tour of duty took him to Japan, then to Korea, and back to Japan. While in Sapporo, Japan, he had the honor of transporting the Prince of Japan to the Winter Ski Games. In 1950, his discharge papers came and he was able to return home.
In 1950, James went to Winfield Good Old Days where he met Dolores E. Dieter. They were married on February 3, 1951, had eight children, and were members of St. John the Baptist Church in Winfield, IL. James worked for the Wheaton School District for 33 years. After retiring, they moved to Apache Junction, AZ, and have lived there for the past 30 years. James was a “Handyman Supreme”. He could fix just about anything and his woodworking skill was beyond measure.
James is survived by his wife, Dolores, and seven of his eight children: Cynthia (Gerald) Frantzen, Linda (David) Koch, James (Beverly) Ludwig, Jr., Debra (Lon) Schouten, Wesley (Janet) Ludwig, Donna Ludwig, and Laura (Mel) Baron, his 19 grandchildren, and his numerous great-grandchildren.
James was preceded in death by Frank Ludwig (son), Frank and Agnes Ludwig (parents), Frank, Anna, Ruth and Raymond Ludwig (siblings), and Marshall Roy (grandson).
A Memorial Mass is planned for November 24, 2021 at 10:00am, at St George Church in Apache Junction, followed by a Military Honors Ceremony at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7900 E Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85207.
We are very sorry to hear of the passing of James Ludwig. He served his country and was an honorable man. He will be missed by his family and, indeed, the world.
I am truly saddened by Jim’s passing. He was the best of the best .Just like his brother Raymond dearly loved them both. I will never forget the red bicycle Jim fixed up for me when I was about 11 or 12. I was certainly proud of that bike ,and then it got stolen soon afterwards but the cops recovered it later.
So this is the Man who started it all; raising such amazing children that I was blessed enough to know. I have seen this family experience good and bad. The good was an experience I’ll never forget. I’m lucky to have spent time with this man at the memorial for his son Frank. Jim, Wes, Donna And all the children and grandchildren Surely I have plenty of reasons to live life as honorable as Mr. James Ludwig. Thank you to momma Mrs Delores for standing by him all these years. Mr. James Ludwig sr. Thank you sir for all you’ve done for your loved ones. God rest your soul.
Uncle Jim, you were an AMAZING soul. God gained an awesome Angel. Please watch over Auntie Dee, and all your family still here on earth. My condolences and prayers for the entire family during this must difficult time. Love you all so much!!!
My heart hurts so much for you Dee. Because of recent surgery, I am not able to come hug your neck. Thinking of you and Jim so much. Seeing your comings and goings out my window will never be the same. Love you pretty lady.
We are very sorry to hear of the passing of James Ludwig. He served his country and was an honorable man. He will be missed by his family and, indeed, the world.
I am truly saddened by Jim’s passing. He was the best of the best .Just like his brother Raymond dearly loved them both. I will never forget the red bicycle Jim fixed up for me when I was about 11 or 12. I was certainly proud of that bike ,and then it got stolen soon afterwards but the cops recovered it later.
So this is the Man who started it all; raising such amazing children that I was blessed enough to know. I have seen this family experience good and bad. The good was an experience I’ll never forget. I’m lucky to have spent time with this man at the memorial for his son Frank. Jim, Wes, Donna And all the children and grandchildren Surely I have plenty of reasons to live life as honorable as Mr. James Ludwig. Thank you to momma Mrs Delores for standing by him all these years. Mr. James Ludwig sr. Thank you sir for all you’ve done for your loved ones. God rest your soul.
Uncle Jim, you were an AMAZING soul. God gained an awesome Angel. Please watch over Auntie Dee, and all your family still here on earth. My condolences and prayers for the entire family during this must difficult time. Love you all so much!!!
My heart hurts so much for you Dee. Because of recent surgery, I am not able to come hug your neck. Thinking of you and Jim so much. Seeing your comings and goings out my window will never be the same. Love you pretty lady.