Judy Marlene Siblerud, 60

Judy Marlene Siblerud finished her journey on earth at her home Sept. 6, 2010, in the loving presence of her daughter, Deva, her siblings and her wonderful hospice nurse, Laurie. Judy loved living and valued every breath she was given. She tenaciously and courageously fought cancer for 15 years. Sept. 23, 1949, Judy was born, the fourth child of Ellsworth and Kathryn Siblerud. She joined her siblings on the family farm in the Egan area and embarked on her first adventure at age two, riding her trike a mile to Zobach s to check on the crying lambs. Judy graduated from Egan School, Flathead High School, Eastern Montana College and earned her master s degree in school administration from the University of Montana. She received many honors academically, musically and socially throughout her formal education for her excellence. Judy taught school in Missoula and Lewistown before being elected as Fergus County Superintendent of Schools for eight years. She especially enjoyed being involved with the Hutterite schools in the area. She moved to New Mexico where she completed massage school and various alternative health courses. Her travels took her to Hamilton, where she worked with friends at Garden Seed Company for several seasons. That circle of friendship maintained its closeness and loyalty even in the last days of Judy s life. Nov. 2, 1989, Deva Elise Maeser Siblerud was born in Hamilton. Deva was Judy s passion and joy, evidenced in their close relationship. They lived in Canada for two years before settling in their home a mile from Judy s childhood home. Deva welcomed Judy s presence in her everyday life, and so did Deva s friends, especially Tasha. Judy s adventures took her to Hawaii, Jamaica, Amsterdam, Germany and most recently Brazil, searching for a cure for her disease. Her appreciation for God s creation initiated adventures through the wildernesses of Montana and Idaho via horseback and covered wagon. She loved to hike in Glacier Park and other spots with her cousins Marcia and Bob and many friends. Mount Aneas was one of her favorite places to go. Judy was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church and has attended Christian Science church and Shining Mountains over the years. Judy will be missed by her daughter, Deva; siblings, Lonnie (Ginni) Siblerud, LuAnn (Bob) Borgen, Jan (John) Bustad and Joyce (Alan) Schmautz; Aunt Jo and Uncle Don; nieces and nephews, Juleen, Tammi, Jason, Jaime, Janae, Katie, Cody, Will, Seth, and Kadyn; family members, Walkin and Harmony Maeser; close friends, Sally and Steven; and many relatives and friends. Services will be held Thanksgiving weekend, time and place to be determined. An account to benefit Deva has been established at Valley Bank. To sign Judy s guest book, please go to www.buffalohillfh.com. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.