James “Jim” M. Chudej, 65

James “Jim” M. Chudej, of Plover, passed away at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on December 24, 2022, at the age of 65.

Jim was born January 3, 1957, to Josef and Mary (née Houck) Chudej in Amarillo, Texas. As a young boy, he attended local schools; eventually, as a young man, moving to Springdale, Arkansas.

Following his schooling, Jim found himself in the agriculture business, which turned into a lifelong passion. He worked harvesting crops and managing crews for both Razorback Farms and Green Giant. This career is what ultimately brought him to central Wisconsin where he met the love of his life, Charlotte Woyak.

The two were married on May 14, 1983, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Plainfield, Wis. Together they owned and operated the “Just Country” bar and restaurant in Amherst. Throughout the years, Jim continued to hold various positions in the sales and agriculture industries as well as being a firefighter and EMT for the Plover Fire Department.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman, spending as much time in nature as he could—especially if it was warm outside. Regardless of the weather, fishing, hunting, and gardening were a few of his favorite hobbies. He had a passion for cooking and enjoyed trying new recipes, some a little too spicy! Above all, Jim adored spending time with his family and friends, no matter the activity.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Chelsea (Drew Schultz) Chudej of Stevens Point, and 7 siblings; Bill (Lisa) Chudej of Amarillo, TX, Chuck Chudej of Little Rock, AR, Paul (Denise) Chudej of Oklahoma City, OK, Barbara (Brian) Engledowl of Springdale, AR, Peggy (Mike) Baird of Spokane, Wash., Pat (Charlie) Hodge of Cypress, TX, and Kathy Mitchell of Gulfport, MS. He is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Charlotte, and their daughter, Whitney Jo Chudej.