Judith Schank

She was born Judith Raffaele Malse on June 28,1941 in Bridgeport Connecticut to Michael and Marietta Malse. She grew up with a grandmother who immigrated from Naples, Henrietta Cecere, who had a profound influence on her life.

She learned the real way to make Italian food from her grandmother and with that came the understanding that preparing food with love is a powerful way to share love.Those skills and values were passed on to her children and so many family memories are from the meals, intimate conversations and laughter they shared together over the years.

Judy had three children from her first marriage to Frank Kranyik- Susan Kranyik of Wilmington, NC; Jay Kranyik of Asheville, NC; and David Kranyik of Apex, NC. After their divorce she met the love of her life Charles Edward Schank and their marriage was a rare one. They loved each other absolutely and completely and they shared that love in their daily lives with family, friends, and anyone else they encountered.

Her career included being a social worker, a therapist, and a recovery counselor. Her generous and caring spirit did not end after the work day was done, as she was always available to listen, give advice, and hold someone’s hand. She gave a lot more than she ever received but that was ok with her.

She encouraged all who knew her to live their own unique lives with conviction and joy. Her generosity, compassion, and sensitivity are part of the legacy she passed on to her children and grandchildren.

Judy took up rug hooking in the 90’s and mastered the art of dyeing wool for her rugs. She produced dozens of rugs over the years, some taking years to complete, and they are held in private collections all over the U.S. as well as in Britain and France.

Judy and her husband Chuck moved to Wilmington NC in 2006 and they thoroughly enjoyed their final years with family and friends. Their favorite restaurant was Szechuan 132 and they were very fond of Joe, Sally, and Anna. She shared a lifelong love of Pugs with her husband and demonstrated the impossible by being both a Duke and UNC basketball fan.

She was also an avid reader and lover of music. She had a particular

fondness for Elton John but her music collection covered every genre.

After her husband passed in December of 2020, Judy’s last year on this planet was spent at Lake Shore Commons Retirement Community. The family is very grateful for the care and friendship she received from the staff and other residents. She was the only 81 year old at Lake Shore Commons with Queen in her cd player!

She is preceded in death by her loving husband Charles Edward Schank; her sister in law Patti Overcash and her husband Don Overcash; and her sister in law Suzy Blake.

Judy leaves behind her daughter Susan Kranyik, son in law Jake Horton, and beloved granddaughter Iris Horton: son Jay Kranyik; and son David Kranyik, daughter in law Shannon Kranyik, and beloved grandson Elliott Kranyik.

In lieu of flowers you can make a donation to Lower Cape Fear Life Care, who are the angels that helped her family care for her in her final days.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.CobleGreenlawn.com for the Schank family.