With love and gratitude for her life of 86 years, we share the passing of Judith “Judy” Ann Thomas, who entered eternal rest surrounded by her family. Born in Redgranite, WI, to Ray and Dorothea (Erdman) Dunn, Judy’s life was marked by devotion to faith, family and community.
She raised her family in Port Washington, WI retiring back in Redgranite in 1996. After wintering for many years in Arizona, she lived most recently in Phoenix.
Growing up on Dunn’s Island, the 1850s farm of her ancestors, Judy quickly learned the necessary life skills needed to run a home. From cooking to canning, baking to sewing, housekeeping to caring for her brothers and younger cousins, the rhythm of her life was formed early.
An avid reader all her life, Judy was a proud 1957 graduate of Wautoma High School. Two years later, Judy earned her secretarial certificate from Fond du Lac Technical School. That year, she also entered the Milwaukee Sentinel newspaper contest for the title of Miss 1959 Vacation and won. On August 22,1959 she married Thomas J. Thomas, the love of her life, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Berlin, WI. Their marriage became the foundation for a family filled with love and laughter.
Beyond her role as wife and mother, Judy built a legacy of service to her communities. A tireless volunteer, she dedicated herself to the Port Washington community for over 35 years and Redgranite in retirement for 29 more years. Her service included roles as Blood Drive organizer and chair for over 20 years, president of the Junior Women’s Club, AFS volunteer, den mother for the Boy Scouts, plus countless others. Judy shared her Catholic faith through her service to the parishes of St. Peter of Alcantara in Port Washington, WI and St. Mark’s in Redgranite, WI.
She served on the Parish council of each parish as a long-time member and as president, member and president of the Women’s Club and Women’s Guild respectively of each parish, minister of the Eucharist, Lector, and in other ministries.
While balancing family life and all her volunteer commitments, Judy also worked outside the home. Initially, she worked at Leeson Electric, then the former St. Alphonsus hospital in Port Washington as a respiratory therapist for many years. Later, she was the receptionist at Trak International, also in Port Washington, retiring from the position in 1996.
A woman of many interests, Judy adored entertaining family and friends. She loved golf, played softball, and was an avid Packers, Badgers, and Brewers fan. Rarely without a craft project, she made Teddy bears by hand, sewed everything from tote bags to coasters, and made jewelry and bookmarks. Even in her final days, she continued to bake; homemade treats were always in her kitchen.
When asked what her greatest life lessons were, Judy said to always trust in God and to be grateful. Her favorite memories were Christmas mornings and the family summer vacations at Pearl Lake. She will be remembered for her huge heart and lifelong commitment to service to her loved ones and community.
Preceding her in death are brothers Richard Dunn and Thomas Dunn, and sister-in-law Gloria (Vetrone) Dunn.
Left to cherish Judy’s memory is her devoted and loving husband of 66 years, Tom. Both Judy and Tom always professed they were incredibly blessed with a wonderful life and marriage. Judy is survived by her five sons and their families. Kurt and wife, Lynda; their children Tyler (Rachel) and Alexander (Alexandra). Kevin and wife Melissa; their children Kelsey (her husband Ben Sutton and their children Grace and Josie), Blake (his wife, Mykie, and their children Remi and Hudson), and John Thomas. Kyle and partner Amanda Lee; children Jacqueline (Jason Van Egmond), Nicholas, Ethan, Michael. Kory and wife Corinne; children Samantha and Mackenzie. Kristopher and wife Gretchen; children Charlie and Bennett.
Also survived by dear sister-in-law Dianne Dunn, brother-in law Lawrence Thomas (Phyllis), sister-in-law Joan Nickoliasen, beloved niece Judi Gosenheimer, cherished goddaughter Susan Jungenberg and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A celebration of life for Judy will be held this coming spring in Redgranite.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Judy to St Mark Catholic Church, 228 Church Avenue, Redgranite, WI 54970 or to your favorite charity.
For more information, please refer to wieckiskipchakfuneralhome.com
Wiecki-Skipchak Funeral Home
116. S. Adams Ave
Berlin, WI 54923
(920) 361-2050
