James E. Hudock

James “Sunshine Jim” Edward Hudock, age 75, of Merritt Island, Florida passed away peacefully, with friends at his side, at home on March 17th, 2020. Those who knew him will remember his love of fishing, hosting riverside gatherings, English and Contra dancing and his enthusiastic spirit, even as he struggled with health challenges through the years.

He was born in Glendale, California and moved to Cocoa, Brevard County, Florida in 1957. After graduation from Cocoa High School in 1962, Jim completed course work at Brevard Community (Junior) College. His interest in Science, Math and Electronics opened doors to work on Digital Data Systems within the developing space industry for Saturn-Apollo Ground Support teams.

While serving in the Army from 1966 to 1968, Jim enjoyed his deployment to Alaska as part of the Early Warning System team during the Cold War. His experience with Microwave Radio Communications and Repair prepared him to be an ITT Electronic Technician, supporting the operation and maintenance of ground support instrumentation data for the Apollo Lunar and Skylab Missions at Kennedy Space Center.

Sunshine Jim is pre-deceased by his father, Edward George Hudock, mother, Gloria Nadine (Masters) Hudock, and sister, Charlene Louis (Hudock) Norvell, and survived by his former wife, Wimkje “Willie” (Sijbranda) Hudock.

In memory of “Sunshine Jim”, donations may be made to the Country Dance & Song Society (CDSS) or a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life gathering will be planned for a later date.