H. James "Jim" Ludwick, age 77 of Croton, formerly of Grand Rapids and Jenison, passed away peacefully at his home, Tuesday, May 3, 2011. Jim; a man of strong faith; felt that we are all on God's time. He believed that your life should reflect the belief that you held. Jim was a teacher for 38 years. He poured his heart and soul into so many young lives. He taught and coached football and swimming at the high school level finishing his career at Grand Rapids Community College. He enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling, spending time with family and friends. As his health declined and he slowed down he was very content to simply sit with Diane, talking and holding her hand. Jim was the happiest when he could be out on the pond fishing, especially when family was by his side. A few of Jim's proud moments include: being in the United States Marine Corps, earning his Masters Degree from Michigan State University, being a member of the 1948 Union High School state football championship team and his home in Croton. Jim loved to travel; to see new places and experience new things. His most memorable trip was to Hawaii with Diane and a helicopter ride over an active volcano. Many people search their entire lives and never find that one person whom they can love and be truly happy with. God blessed Jim by giving him two people that he loved with all his heart; Joyce and Diane. Jim is survived by his loving wife Diane, his son Doug Ludwick, his daughter Diane (Mike) VanBennekom and Marilee (Marston) Ludwick. He was loved by his grandkids Matt VanBennekom, Erika (Chris) Vonk, Claire (Stephen) Labadie, Kari VanBennekom and Lauren Ludwick. Jim enjoyed his two great-granddaughters, Brooklyn Diaz and Rylee Labadie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Maude (VanEss) Ludwick, his mother-in-law Lillian Gessler and his first wife Joyce. Jim had shared that he led a full and happy life. He knew his Lord and Savior and knew that when his mission was complete, God would call him home. Well done, good and faithful servant. The family will greet friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 5, 2011 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 6th at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Big Rapids with visitation two hours prior. Interment with military honors will take place after the funeral at Highland View Cemetery. Luncheon will follow the committal service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim's name may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church of Big Rapids (heading loop) for the hearing impaired.