James Michael "Mike" Lueders

James Michael "Mike" Lueders, was born on Tuesday, September 16, 1947 passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2011. A lifelong Houstonian, Mike grew up in Pecan Park and attended Broadway Baptist Church and school. He graduated from Milby High School in 1966, and was a proud Milby Buffalo who always enjoyed class reunions.

Mike served in Korea as a member of the U.S. Army, and enjoyed a long career with the postal service. He met his wife, Marion Sullivan, at Channing Players, a community theater where he was an actor. They married in 1985. A life member of the HGCA, he loved guns, dogs, books, music and being in the country, first with his parents in Plantersville and later with his wife at their ranch in Somerville.

Uncomfortable in his own skin, he loved to assume a costume and character. He was active at the Texas Renaissance Festival and for many years he was "Father Christmas" at Galveston's Dickens on the Strand where he won prizes for his costumes. Halloween was his favorite holiday. Every year his home had a theme, fog machines, music, and live actors. He frightened trick-or-treaters with his elaborate costumes and make-up, before treating them to gold doubloons, plastic bats and spider rings.

Mike is survived by his wife Marion, brother Eric Lueders and his wife Jill, niece Helen, Aunt Jean Marsh, and numerous cousins.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 28, 2011 at 3 p.m. at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home Family Chapel, with Rev. Randy Fowler officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA, CAP, the Humane Society, or a charity of your choice.