JUDITH BRAATZ

Judith Ann Braatz, age 72 of Menasha, passed away peacefully early Tuesday, September 10, 2024. She was born December 26, 1951 to Lester and Betty (Basford) Schwartz in Tigerton, WI and was married to Larry Braatz on December 26, 1970, one month after they met.

Judy and Larry lived for many years in Marion before moving to Menasha in the early ‘80s. After their retirement, they moved back to Marion and enjoyed attending auctions and taking many road trips together. Judy loved traveling with Larry. After his passing, Judy moved back to Menasha to be closer to her grandchildren.

Judy was a very crafty woman who loved sewing, crocheting, knitting, and embroidery. She was a talented cook and baker and never had to ask anyone twice to eat her food. She enjoyed playing cribbage and watching The Waltons, MASH, the Green Bay Packers, and cardinals out her window. She had a special place in her heart for her granddog, Duke, to whom she loved sneaking cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets any chance she got. She could have an attitude when necessary and was always able to talk her grandkids into getting her favorite deep-fried cauliflower from JD's, popcorn from Diary Queen, or barbeque from Charlie's.

Judy will be missed by her sisters: Linda (Jerry) Kuehl; and Deborah Schwartz; grandchildren: Desiree (James) Hoelzel; Kayla (Tyler) Paalman; Kirkland (Samantha) Braatz; and great-grandchildren: Carson Paalman; Kinsley Ewing; Leenah, Kenith, and Trenton Braatz. She is further survived by her son-in-law, Robert Kuhr; and by her daughter-in-law, Stacy Braatz. She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry; daughter, Jennifer Kuhr; son, Kelly Braatz; parents, Lester and Betty Schwartz; in-laws, Walter and Alice Braatz; and siblings: Sandra, Sharon, Shirley, and Bobby Schwartz.

A memorial service for Judy will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Friday, September 20, 2024 at Menasha's Westgor Funeral Home. A visitation will be held from 2:00 P.M. until the hour of service. Judy will be laid to rest with Larry at Roseland Cemetery in Marion.

Judy's favorite flower was Lily of the Valley, but consideration for a donation to a memorial fund to be established would be appreciated.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Oakridge Gardens, Barb and Dennis Clow, ThedaCare-Appleton, and Moments Hospice for their care and compassion.