James Ellsworth Luedtke

James Ellsworth Luedtke, age 68, passed away after a brief illness with family by his side on Monday, January 9, 2012. James was born in Neenah on January 14, 1943, the son of the late Harvey and Lorraine (Knaggs) Luedtke. On May 6, 1967, he was united in marriage to his loving wife, Candice Schmidt, in Monico, Wisconsin.

Jim was employed by Neenah Foundry Co. for 45 years, retiring in 2008. Some of Jim’s favorite pastimes included bird watching and especially deer hunting. Jim was a proud member of the Currier and Ives Dinnerware Collectors Club, and also an avid collector of Royal China and American Fostoria. Some of Jim’s favorite TV time was spent watching NASCAR and the Packers.

Jim leaves behind his wife Candy of 44 years. He is also survived by his son, Jeff (Becky) Luedtke, Menasha; and daughter, Tricia (Tim) Van Rooy, Menasha. He was proud Grandpa to four grandchildren: Jaidyn and Lilia Luedtke and Mason and Corbin Van Rooy. He is further survived by his sister, Lynnette Wilfling, Nampa, Idaho; sister-in-law, Luella White, Two Rivers; nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and many friends including his little dog Lexi.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harvey and Lorraine Luedtke and brother-in-law Merton White.

A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at the Martens-Laemmrich Funeral Home, 312 Milwaukee Street, Menasha with Pastor Samuel Degner officiating. Friends will be received at the funeral home from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. This is also the day his journey started here on earth 69 years ago. The committal will take place at St. Mary Cemetery.

Jim’s family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to the staff on 2nd floor, Dr. Avery, Dr. Lauderdale, Dr. Reidy and the ICU team at St. Elizabeth Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion. We would like to sincerely thank Pastor Degner for sharing God’s word with Jim, giving him great comfort and giving peace to his family.

A memorial is being established in his name in lieu of flowers.

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