Judy Graetz, age 74, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025 at Kinnic Health and Rehab in River Falls, Wis.
Judith Ann was born to Raymond, Sr, and Jeanette (Fasbender) Simon on March 21, 1950, in Hudson, Wis. Growing up in a lively home as one of 10 children, she thrived on the joy and challenges of a large family, shaping her resilient and loving nature. Judy attended St. Bridget Parish School and later River Falls High School where she graduated in 1968. In her younger years she worked at Hanson’s Cafe and the nursing home in River Falls.
Judy found her soulmate in Roger Graetz, and they were united in marriage at St. Bridget Catholic Church in River Falls on June 7, 1969. The couple made River Falls their home, where they were blessed with and lovingly raised four children. Judy was a devoted and nurturing mother, taking on the roles of disciplinarian, nurse, teacher, and cook as she mastered the art of homemaking. Once all her children were in school, Judy began working in food service at Westside Elementary and later Rocky Branch, a career she enjoyed for over 20 years. She cherished her co-workers, teachers, school staff, and especially the students she served lunch to for so many years.
Judy and Roger took great joy in attending their children’s musical, sporting, and school events. They bought a cabin up north, where they enjoyed weekends on the lake. Judy delighted in cooking for family and friends, and many were fortunate to savor her specialties, including pumpkin, lemon, and seven-layer bars, as well as the family favorite, “Pizza Hotdish.”
In retirement, Judy and Roger relocated to their lake home on Long Lake in Centuria, Wis. They enjoyed daily pontoon rides, socializing with their lake neighbors, and hosting friends and family. Judy and Roger had a passion for travel and remained actively involved in their grandchildren’s sports and activities. They were devoted, long-time members and volunteers at St. Bridget Parish in River Falls and Our Lady of the Lakes Parish in Balsam Lake. Judy was the ultimate caregiver, always ready to assist family and friends in need.
Judy is survived by her four children, including Jon Graetz (Kay), Matt Graetz (Beth), Jackie Nugent (Keith), and Brad Graetz (Kristi); 11 grandchildren, including Justin & Ethan Graetz (Jon), Mason, Logan, & Haley Graetz (Matt), Zachary, Kaitlyn, & Carson Nugent (Jackie), Brayden, Brody, & Blake Graetz (Brad); her mother Jeanette Simon; brothers Raymond, Jr (Virginia) and Pat (Marilyn); sisters Sandy (Gary) Schommer, Debbie (Rollie) Johnson, Sue (Terry) Malmer, and Sherry (Scott) Peters; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Roger; father, Raymond Simon, Sr; father and mother-in-law, John and Alice Graetz; brothers, David and Dan (Lorri) Simon; sisters Nancy (Bob) Muller and infant Violet, brothers-in-law Joe Johnson, Ken Dunn and sister-in-law Mary Whitman.
On behalf of the Graetz Family, a special thank you to the nursing home staff and friends at Kinnic Health and Rehab for the kindness, loving care and friendship so freely given to Judy and Roger.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 17, 2025 at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 E. Division St.) in River Falls with lunch following.
Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025 at Bakken-Young and also on Monday from 10-11 a.m. before the service. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
