Judy Kathryn Zuidema

Judy earned a Bachelor of Arts in teaching from Northern Michigan University and taught special education prior to raising her 6 children. She retired after 20+ years at the Bridgewood Central where she enjoyed being a loving care giver.

Judy loved her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren fiercely. Every week she hosted a family dinner and upwards of 23 people gathered in her small living room sitting in layers on furniture, laps, and the floor to laugh and share stories of the week. These gatherings have created cherished memories that will stay in her family’s hearts forever.

Judy perfected the grandma shuffle and shared her fun-loving dance moves during family dance parties – a favorite activity of the grandkids and cousins. Judy was a Jehovah’s witness and a member of the Kingdom Hall. She had many great friends and enjoyed singing, learning, and fellowship with her congregation.

She was an avid collector of trinkets such as pens, Beanie Babies, and Raggedy Ann dolls, and appreciated a crisp fountain Coke from McDonalds! The best legacy she leaves behind is being an example of unconditional love, generosity, and humor. She will be deeply missed by many, and her memory will always live on.

She is survived by her sister, Joyce Ollila; her children, Andy (Jill) Zuidema, Jody (Paul) Meyers, James (Kristin) Zuidema, Kile (Mary) Zuidema, Marjorie Schafer, and Kelly (Robert) LaMarche; grandchildren, Cal (Katlyn) Meyers, Jay (Kali) Meyers, Halle (Caleb) Funk, Sergei Ivanchenko, Robin Schafer, Charlie Zuidema, Allysa (Joseph) Niepke, Jesse Schafer, Emma Zuidema, Josie Schafer, Brooklyn LaMarche, Gracelynn Schafer, and Gunnar LaMarche; great grandchildren, Leo and Aspen Funk and James Meyers, and baby boy Niepke on the way; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Marjorie Phillips; and son-in-law, Joe Schafer.

Private services will be held at a later date at her church.

Memorials may be made to the family to support charities that Judy loved.

Messages of condolence can be directed to the family at www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.