Dorr native Gordon Arthur Ludema of Caledonia died Monday, Feb. 21. He was 92.
In 1948, Gord enlisted in the Air Force and served four years, stationed in both Japan and South Korea. His duties were extended for good behavior and he tallied 104 missions in the Korean War. On a blind date, Gord met wife Lillian, then on April 1, 1955, and they settled in Battle Creek and raised three children, while Gord worked mainly buying and selling vehicles and motor homes.
Gord was born in a farmhouse in Dorr on Oct. 30, 1929. As a boy he worked on the farm, sold celery, was a horse whisperer, and drove a Model T Ford to school at age 12. The family moved to Coopersville during his high school years where he played football, worked two jobs and gave rides on his motorcycle.
He served as an elder and the building committee at the Christian Reformed church, where they made many friends and hosted potluck parties. Gord and Lill returned to GR in 2000 to be closer to their 10 grandchildren, watching their school and sporting events. Gord continued working as a car buying agent, retiring at the age of 90.
He loved using his natural gift as handyman, helping family and friends with their cars and houses.
Surviving are children Gary (Vicky) Ludema, Laura (Dale) Potter and Linda (David) Spencer; grandchildren Alyssa (Chris) Nance, Geoff (Kristen) Ludema, Greg Ludema, Grant Ludema; Audrey Potter (Joe Martinez), Michael (Lauren) Potter, Amanda Potter; Jenna Spencer, Luke (Cassie) Spencer, and Jack Spencer; adored great grandchildren Beckham and Declan and two arriving in May; his siblings Jo Ludema, Bob and Hazel Ludema, Joyce and Fred DeJong, Carole Neymeiyer, Cal and Jen Ludema; and many more family and friends.
Gord was preceded in death by parents Otto and Johanna, wife of 65 years Lillie Mae, forever pal brother Ken and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
There will be a visitation from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25, at Stroo Funeral Home 1095 68th St. S.E. Gord’s pastor, Paul DeVries will officiate a memorial service at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at Brookside CRC, 3600 Kalamazoo Ave. S.E., followed by coffee time.
Donations can be made to South Christian High School or VanAndel Institute
