Passed away unexpectedly on April 10, 2025, at her residence. Born on October 18, 1943, in Austin, MN, she was a cherished daughter of Everett and Joy (Billick) Lee.
Judy’s life was a testament to compassion and service. She dedicated 35 years as a unit secretary in the neonatal care unit at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN, where her kindness and efficiency provided comfort to countless families during their most vulnerable moments.
Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her professional life. Alongside her first husband of 27 years, Renard Lange from Brownsdale, MN, Judy opened her heart and home to 19 foster children over 13 years, embodying unconditional love and support. After Renard’s passing in 1989, she found companionship and joy with her second husband, Richard Kielb, sharing many meaningful years together until his passing in 2003.
She was preceded in death by her parents and three of her sisters. She is survived by her sister Ardith Wagner and brother Ray Lee, both of Austin, MN.
Judy is survived by her loving children: Sheila (Scott) Pottorff, Kevin Lange, Christine Munch, and Matthew (Jaime) Lange. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Kara, Renee, Emily (Kiani), Ivy, Laura, Ryan, Alexis, and Ameera. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her great-grandchildren: Logan, Dominick, James, Beau, and Tate. Judy cherished each moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, delighting in their laughter and accomplishments.
Visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 pm on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Robert’s Funeral Home, located at 8108 Barbara Avenue, Inver Grove Heights, MN. A Celebration of Life service to honor Judy’s remarkable journey will be held at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to causes close to Judy’s heart: Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org) and Minnesota Neonatal Foundation (neonatalfoundation.org).
Judy’s life was a beacon of love, generosity, and resilience. Her unwavering commitment to caring for others leaves an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.