Judith lived for love and art. She was a musician, a sketcher, sculptor, graphic designer, crocheter, jewelry maker, photographer, and painter. She played the cards she was dealt and slung them back at her blackjack and poker tables. Born a military brat and free spirit, she loved to jump and then build wings, but felt grounded in her higher power and chosen communities, firmly believing no man is an island. She loved to laugh, and the sounds of her joy will never be forgotten. 

 

But above all, she was a generous soul, the nurturer, and epitome of home everywhere she went – and she loved to roam. The love she shared with her family and friends knew no bounds; she practiced patience and reconciliation, grace and gratitude. A self-described hippie at heart, her annual Christmas wish was Peace on Earth, and we will spend the rest of our days living to honor her, modeling her example and the wisdom she taught to us.

 

We lost her suddenly one week after her 69th birthday in her new Wisconsin home, with her whole created family close by. She was the first-born to Joseph Young and Shirley Hunnell, birthed in the District of Columbia. She is survived by her children Abigail and Garrett, her siblings Joe, Jeff, and Shari, and her beloved nieces and nephews that cherished her as the “fun aunt”. She was also loved by her co-parent and close friends, Darren and Brenda Peterson, her kitty, Jovie, and those who met her as she wandered around the nation. 

 

In lieu of flowers, we are asking donations to be made to the Orphan Animal Sanctuary located here in her final hometown, Neenah, Wisconsin. She was cared for by Wichmann’s Funeral Home, her ashes will be preserved and spread among her favorite places, and a private family memorial will be held at Lakeside Park in Fond du Lac, WI.