Judy Joanne Kuiper

Judy Joanne Kuiper peacefully went home to be with Jesus on October 16, 2025, surrounded by her children, their spouses, and many of her grandchildren.

Born in Cottonwood, Idaho, to Cliff and Oda Delle Wren, Judy grew up with her siblings Jerry, Jeanie, Mike, and Stephen - with Stephen as her only surviving brother.

After spending a year in the convent, God led Judy down a different path - right into the heart of Gary Kuiper. He spotted her waitressing at a café in Grangeville and declared, "I'm going to marry that lady!" And he did. Together they raised five children (Jeff, Theresa, Tony, Kenny, Nancy) while adding a few more along the way (Jamie Rollins and Tony Ward), living and working in beautiful national parks across the country before settling in Mead, Washington, where they've spent the last 26 years.

Judy loved Jesus deeply and shared His love with everyone she met. She spent decades leading youth groups, working at Lake Roosevelt HS as an assistant, teaching Vacation Bible School, hosting Bible studies, and faithfully praying with friends each week. She also never missed a sporting event - whether it was her kids, grandkids, adopted kids, or the Zags - and she always kept stats!

Her hobbies reflected what she would call her "kisses from God": gardening, genealogy discoveries, puzzles, fixing up dolls, and games around the table. She also loved family gatherings, reunions, weekly dinners, holiday celebrations, and birthdays. Celebrating people was her priority, and she rarely ever missed weddings or funerals.

Judy's life was a beautiful blend of love, laughter, faith, and family. She leaves behind a legacy of joy that will be felt for generations.

The service will be held at 11am on Saturday, October 25, at St. Francis of Assisi in Spokane, Washington.