Judith “Judy” Jurgensen
Judith (Judy) Jurgensen was born on March 22, 1943, in Perry, Iowa, the only child of Robert and Mary Gift. Growing up on the farm outside of Yale, Iowa, instilled in Judy a deep and lasting love for animals, the outdoors, and for the land. Following in her mother's footsteps, Judy developed a passion for dance. As a young woman, she enjoyed participating in classes, pageants, and performances.
She graduated from Perry High School and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Buena Vista University in 1991, an accomplishment she was deeply proud of. Judy built a career defined by professionalism, precision, and trust. She worked over 3 decades at Marshalltown’s KIOWA Corporation and over 2 decades later at Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company, supporting individuals at both companies in senior administrative roles.
Judy married Donald Jurgensen, and together they had one son, Michael (Mick), who was the love of her life. Above all else, Judy was a devoted and strong single mother. Judy raised her son with unwavering love, strength, and selflessness, always putting others first. She believed deeply in being independent and capable, and she lived that belief every day–never shying away from hard work and confidently taking on any challenge set before her.
In 1966, Judy and her son moved with her parents to Shady Oaks in Marshalltown. For 60 years, Shady Oaks was the home base of her life. She became one of its most dedicated and hardworking contributors, devoting herself to improving the grounds. She helped plant and water new trees and gardens, mowing, weed eating and caring deeply to create positive perceptions of the historic property. After retiring in 2012, she also served as a tour guide and spokesperson for The Big Treehouse (www.bigtreehouse.net)
Judy was known for her warm smile, infectious giggle, and servant’s heart. She loved her rescue cats deeply–especially Vader, along with Nero, Spike, and Abby–and treasured quiet walks through the campground.
She was preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth (Liz) Fischer-Jurgensen and special cat friends.
Per her wishes, Judy has been cremated. Visitation will be held at Mitchell Family Funeral Home on Sunday, March 22, from 1:30 p. m. until 2:30 p.m. when a special 83rd birthday celebration of life will begin. A private burial of cremains will be held at a later date near Dallas Center, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages friends to remember Judy by donating to the Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown. Online condolences may be left at www.mitchellfh.com.