Judith 'Judi' S. Verdeck, 61
Judith "Judi" S. Verdeck, 61, died at her home in Bigfork on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2005.
She was born June 5, 1944, in St. Paul, Minn., to Warren and Edna (Schwanz) Sanderson.
She worked many years in the dental profession. She was most recently employed by Dr. Connie Small in Kalispell, and previously by Dr. Larry Clayton of Bigfork, and Dr. Charles Mason of Kalispell. Judi enjoyed people and was devoted to her many friends and she also loved art.
The bright light that was Judi, shines as a beacon to all those who knew and loved her. It shines as a tribute to the courage, grace and enthusiasm she brought to those she loved and the many who loved her.
"She told me once that she felt a life should be judged by the number of friends one leaves behind. If that is the case, Judi had a wonderfully successful life."
Judi received many cards and notes during her battle with cancer. One such note seems to touch the essence of her personality: "… Judi, you lived your life with a big heart and a positive, caring attitude for others. You touched the hearts of a lot of people and made a difference in their lives. I know that I am a better person for knowing you. I admire the courage, strength and dignity with which you have faced your illness. I hope that God will comfort you and help you find peace."
She wanted to thank the many wonderful friends who helped her with love and encouragement during her ordeal, as well as Home Options/Hospice for their professional care and support.
Judi was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her longtime companion and fiance, Tom Chaussee, of Bigfork; her son, Russell Hiatt, and wife, Linda, and their two children, Tony and Jenna of Edina, Minn.; also by numerous cousins, aunts and uncles in Minneapolis-St. Paul, and Huntington Beach, Calif.
A memorial celebration for Judi Verdeck will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at Johnson Mortuary Chapel in Kalispell.
The family suggests memorials be made in her name to Hospice Home Health Options, 175 Commons Loop, Ste. 100, Kalispell, MT 59901.
Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Judy's family.