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Paul and Nancy Gorman posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Life’s challenges often arrive unexpectedly. Judy was leading a normal life when at age 20 she was diagnosed with a disease that would change just about everything she did. Over time, Judy lost her ability to walk, she lost hand-eye co-ordination, she lost the vision in one eye and one side of her hearing. Her active “normal” life was lost to her.
Judy carried this enormous burden with amazing grace. And her unforgettable sense of humor. Most of us in similar circumstances would have good reason to feel embittered by life’s hazards. And yes, Judy would get frustrated when she couldn’t do the things her friends, then her children, could do. For the past 15 years, Judy’s short-term memory lapses could really vex her. But often as not, Judy turned to humor to deflect her frustration.
Judy faced these challenges because of her love of family. Her concern for the well-being of Rich and Megan and her grandchildren was her motivation to carry on. Her well worn photo albums with their pictures -– always on display and within reach -- is eloquent testimony to that love.
Judy was a warm and wonderful friend to everyone. At the nursing home, you could see her offering a kind word or re-assurance to her fellow residents. To her many friends, she always showed a genuine interest in us and our families. She may not have been able to travel or socialize the way her friends might do, but she always wanted to hear of our latest “adventures”. If we hadn’t seen Judy in awhile, she would never ask, “Where have you been?” Instead it would be, “It’s great to see you. Now tell me what you’ve been up to.”
With her passing, we all have regrets that we didn’t do more for her. We would feel guilty about not visiting more often. We would also feel guilty accepting the heartfelt appreciation Judy expressed for even the simplest favor you might do for her. But Judy would not want us to feel that way.
Judy inspired everyone who knew her: her family, friends, fellow residents (and their families) and staff of the nursing home. Judy inspired by example, and it was the best kind of example. It was a day-to-day living example of courage and grace facing some of life’s more daunting challenges. We will miss her warmth, her kindness, her loyalty, her friendship. We who knew her have been enriched by the life of Judith Ann Kladstrup.
Judy’s maiden name was Kelly. We can think of nothing more apt than an old Irish saying. When we count our blessings, Judy, we count you twice.
With love from your friends,
Marilyn, Sharon, Scootie, Carol, Rosemary and Nancy
Visitation
No Public Visitation
Service Info
St Louis Church - Pittford
Interment
Private