James Baudendistel

Jim (James) Baudendistel passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Sunday, October 12th. He was predeceased by his wife Judy who died in January. They were married for 59 years. Jim was 81 but those numbers do nothing to describe who this man really was. The first two words that come to mind are "role model." Jim had such kindness and empathy for others he made you want to be exactly the kind of person he was. He went out of his way to encourage everyone...but he did so in quiet way. He gave advice only when asked... and kindly. But he was exactly the kind of a man you wanted to approach for advice.

His two children Todd Baudendistel and Missi Schulte both adored him. His co-workers admired his honesty and his work ethic. He worked for Ford Motor Company for 40 years and then in "retirement" continued to work for Smyth Automotive for several more years. He loved grilling out with his friends at Smyth. He had a great sense of humor he shared with everybody, but never at anyone's expense. Jim was a "car guy" and especially enjoyed watching NASCAR races...specifically those drivers who drove Fords. Yes, he was loyal too. He loved animals and showered that love on all his dogs he owned over the years. He will be missed by every person he knew; but most especially by his children Todd and Missi, his grandchildren Justin, Meghan and Lauren and great grandchildren Mia, Zayden, Raelynn and Charleigh.

Jim will leave a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, but the memories he gave us will always make us smile because we will remember how lucky we were to have had Jim in our lives.

A memorial gathering will take place on Saturday, October 18, 2025 from 1-3PM in the Evans Funeral Home, Milford with a memorial service beginning at 3:00PM.