It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Judith Elaine Kreun, age 80, of Bigfork, Minn., on Sunday, October 20, 2024.

Judy got her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education at Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, in 1967, but her love of music drew her to a path of teaching private piano lessons as well as a church organist for 34 years. Judy said that music was God’s gift to her. Judy would also tell you the “fun fact” of her life was sitting at over 800 basketball games over the years supporting Darrell, first as a player and then as a coach.

The lake and the woods called to Judy. In retirement, Judy and Darrell were able to fulfill their dream of living at the lake in northern Minnesota on Little Turtle Lake.

Even in retirement, Judy continued to teach piano to friends and remained a church organist for another 20 years, until her health prevented her from continuing to play. Judy was also known for her green thumb and her love of tending to her vegetable gardens (she had a knack for growing tomatoes even in the harsh northern Minnesota weather) and flowers. She was also an avid fisherwoman; she would tell you she didn’t get to fish nearly enough. She also loved pontoon rides and listening to the call of the loons and watching eagles soar.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents, James and Marie (Vanderstoep) Roelofs. Judy is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Darrell; her children, Kelli (Chuck), Tadd (Jodi), Traci (Bruce); cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her brother, Bob Roelofs.

May my life be a sweet symphony playing a lilting melody followed by a lingering refrain. May the instruments resound with a: Prelude of prayer; Largo of love; Strain of strength; Kyrie of kindness; Gracenote of generosity; Anthem of acclamation; Jubilee of joy; Pianissimo of peace; Offertory of obedience; Hymn of humility; Psalm of patience; Forte of faith; Hark of hope; Concerto of concern; Rest of serenity; Gloria of goodness; Postlude of praise. That is composed and conducted by the Master Maestro, CHRIST, THE LORD! – Jane Lippy