James Francis Ludescher

Jim Ludescher, 72, of Cape Coral, FL and formerly of Rochester died Sunday, September 30, 2012 at St. Marys Hospital. James Francis Ludescher was born July 30, 1940 in Dubuque, Iowa.His family moved to Rochester in the early forties where he lived most of his life.He graduated from Lourdes High School in 1959.He was employed by Murphy Finance for two years, and then was offered employment at Clements Chevrolet Cadillac in their loan company (City Loan).He was transferred to the dealership, and started Clements Chevrolet Cadillac Finance Dept. As part of his interest in volunteering for civic services, he joined the Rochester Junior Chambers of Commerce in 1961 and was named the chairman of the first Soap Box Derby sponsored by Clements Chevrolet.It was a great experience culminating in Jim taking the winner (Bob Quinn) and his parents to Akron, OH, to compete in the National Finales of the Soap Box Derby.After the JCs he joined the early risers exchange club and performed many civic services. In March of 1986 he accepted employment at Dixie Buick GMC in Ft. Myers, FL as their Business Manager.He retired from Dixie Buick in March of 2006, and he and his wife Josie enjoyed cruises and most of all spending their summers in MN visiting relatives and friends. Jim is survived by his wife, Josie of 35 years; children, Lt. Col. Jay (Carrie) Ludescher of Maxwell ABF, AL, Dick (Brenda) Bell of Eyota, MN, Mike (Stacia) Bell of Lithia, FL, and Steve (Allison) Bell of St. Cloud, MN; eleven grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and friends; two brothers, Jack (Deanna) Ludescher of Prior Lake, MN and Bob Ludescher of Rochester; and three sisters, Margaret (John) Corrigan of Rochester, Patricia Pat Lowrie of Rochester, and Mary (Bob) Weider of Mt. Joy, PA.He was preceded in death by his parents. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 4, 2012 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1315 12th Ave NW, Rochester with Father Paul Nelson officiating.A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the church.