Judith Sharon “Judy” Wilkinson

Passed away on July 15, 2014 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Paul. She was born on November 21, 1941 in New Ulm, the daughter of Melvin & Carol Speckman. She grew up in Sleepy Eye. In 1963, she graduated from Westmar College. She taught for the next year. In 1964, Judy was united in marriage to Thomas K. Wilkinson. They were blessed with a daughter, Mary Beth. Judy taught as a Substitute Teacher in many schools. She then worked in Customer Service at Fortis Insurance. Judy was an avid volunteer. She found her passion with the group, Marvelous Mitten Makers (now part of Volunteers of America). For many years, she helped knit warm winter items for children in the St. Paul School District. For several years, she was the Group Coordinator, working with about one hundred volunteer knitters who made about 10,000 donated items a year. Judy regularly attended North Haven Church. Above all, Judy loved her family. She especially enjoyed spending one-on-one time with each of her grandchildren, “to properly spoil them” she would say, and to teach them cooking, sewing & knitting. Being properly raised in a good German family, Judy had a no-nonsense personality and a good sense of humor. Though small in stature, everyone knew not to mess with Judy. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Judy is survived by her Husband of 50 years, Tom; Daughter & Son-in-Law, Mary Beth & Leroy Dieter; Grandchildren, Frankie, Christine, Luke, Maddie & Max; Brothers, Calvin (Roxanne), Keevin (Alana), Haven (Ann) & Mervin (Laurie); Many Beloved Nieces & Nephews; Extended Family & Friends. She is preceded in death by her Parents, & Brother, Milen. A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate her life at 2:00 PM on Sunday, July 27 at Wulff Woodbury Funeral Home, 2195 Woodlane Dr, Woodbury, 55125. Visitation for one hour prior. Memorials may be designated to “Susan G. Komen for the Cure” or to the donor’s charity of choice.