Judith Irene Olen

Judith I. Olen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and community leader, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at Riley House Hospice, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 89 years old.

Born on November 30, 1936, to Wendell and Dorothy Koerner, Judy was raised in Jefferson City, Missouri, where she developed the strong values of compassion, dedication, and service that guided her throughout her life.

Judy pursued her education with passion and purpose. She attended Culver-Stockton College, studying Physical Education and Psychology, later earning a master's degree in health from Indiana State University in Terre Haute and continuing her studies in Special Education at Governors State University.

Education was not simply a profession for Judy. It was her calling. She began her teaching career at Purdue Calumet, where she taught for five years before dedicating over three decades to Thornton Fractional schools. At TF South High School, Judy served as a teacher, volleyball coach, and Athletic Director from 1970 to 1992, inspiring countless students both in the classroom and on the court. She later continued her career at TF North High School from 1992 until her retirement in 2002. Altogether, Judy devoted 39 years to education, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues.

Outside of her professional life, Judy had a deep love for animals and devoted many years to the Humane Society. From 2000 to 2021, she faithfully served on the Executive Board and as President, advocating tirelessly for animal welfare and helping improve the lives of countless animals in need.

Judy was a devoted member of First Christian Disciples of Christ, where her faith, kindness, and servant’s heart touched many lives.

She is survived by her loving husband, Michael Olen; her brother, Wendell Koerner Jr.; her daughter, Lynn (Joel) Euler; her cherished grandchildren, Andrew Euler and Kimberly (Cole) Deter; three treasured great-grandchildren; and several beloved cousins and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her son, Craig Umbrach, in 1980.

Judy will be remembered for her strength, generosity, leadership, humor, and unwavering love for her family, students, friends, and animals. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched throughout her remarkable journey.

Funeral services will be held at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Ave, Crown Point, IN, on, Thursday, May 28, 2026, beginning with a Memorial Visitation from 12:00 - 1:00 PM, Service at 1:00 PM, and Interment at 2:00 PM at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Officiated by Pastor Becky Sundquist.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Humane Indiana in Judith’s honor.

Please share photos to her online memorial and send them to [email protected]