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Thomas R. Ludwig, of Chelsea, MI, passed away peacefully at his home on March 13, 2022 at age 70. He was born on July 21, 1951 in Detroit, the son of James and Elsie (Soth) Ludwig. He married Janice M. (Centkowski) on September 6, 1974.
Thom was a tool and die maker by trade and worked for General Motors for over 30 years. He was a proud member of the UAW Local 735 throughout his career. He most loved spending time with family, friends, and loved ones through his many hobbies. He was an avid golfer and fisherman. When in town, he could most likely be found with his friends at one of several golf courses, especially Pierce Lake, where he volunteered time to maintain the course.
He enjoyed spending summers at his cottage on Hamlin Lake, where he and his family created many lifelong memories boating, fishing and spending days at the beach. His other passions took him on the road to visit his grandchildren in Ohio and Illinois. Lovingly known as “Papa” to them, he made every effort to attend each birthday, holiday, and extracurricular event possible. He was incredibly proud of the grandkids and their pursuits. He was a neighborhood favorite in Ohio, as he often visited his daughter’s home to be actively involved in their lives. His son’s wrestling pursuits as a competitor and now coach brought him across the country all winter long. He was an avid enthusiast of the sport, especially the NIU Huskies where his son coaches. He would follow the team closely all season long making treks across the country to support. He made many close friendships through the sport and was a fixture among the Huskie faithful.
Thom is survived by his wife, Janice, two children, Ryan (Jolene) Ludwig, and Andrea (Brian) LaFreniere; four grandchildren, Hudson and Harper Ludwig, and Andon and Gracie LaFreniere; his siblings, Larry (Marilyn) Martin, Pat (Howard) Krausman, Jerry (Diane) Ludwig, and Diane (Duane) Scholl. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Ludwig, and his sister, Judy Sieloff.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 20, 2022 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, March 21, 2022, 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary Catholic Church with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.
In memory of Thom, memorial contributions may be made to the Hamlin Lake Preservation Society (HLPS), P.O. Box 178, Ludington, MI 49431.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
