LODI - Where do we start to tell the story of our beautiful and beloved Judi. She was born the middle child, with David before her and Janis after. Judi took on the role of peacekeeper very seriously her whole life. She always strived to keep our family together and on the right path. She was the heart of our family and will live on in our hearts forever.

Together, Judi and Mark raised their two children, Adam and Erica, with much love. Judi was involved in all of their life events. She was at every sporting event, concert and recital, cheering them on. Judi was always there to offer guidance and wisdom and encouragement. She was so very proud of them. She always said they turned out to be caring and loving adults.

Adam would talk to his mother almost on a daily basis on his way into work for the day. Judi loved to hear about his stories from his career in law enforcement and was especially excited when he took his new role as a detective. He would tell her all about the exciting and mundane stories that came with the job. Judi was always willing to listen, no matter the topic. Never judging, always ready to give her advice and opinion.

Judi had a very special relationship with her daughter in law Jessica and her son Dylan. Judi made it a point to have special desserts and candy out for Dylan anytime he visited. He now asks what is for dessert after every meal because of Judi. Dylan coming to visit also gave Mark an excuse to go fishing with Dylan while she spent time with Jessica. Jessica took great pride in learning how to cook like Judi and help her in the kitchen. Jessica looked up to Judi like a second mother and treasured her time that she had with her.

Judi was always willing to help. No matter what needed to be done, Judi would do it if she was able. She always wanted to make sure everyone had something to eat. There was never an event where “Judi Kleist Katering” wasn’t welcome - Brewers tailgates, moving days, or any family gathering. You named it, and she made it. If she heard you liked something, she made darn sure she had it in the house next time you visited. That’s just the kind of lady she was.

Judi also always wanted grandkids. For the past four years, her greatest joy has been her role of Mimi to Madelyn and Olivia. She took her job very seriously - always showing up with a positive attitude, a song in her heart, homemade treats, and surprises for the girls. Judi was the first to admit she didn’t always know the words to the kid songs, but was more than happy to make up her own. She sewed them countless blankets, burp cloths, toys, and bibs. But her best sewing projects were Christmas stockings she made for the whole family and a beautiful apron for the girls. But before Judi became a Mimi, she was the world’s best mother to her daughter - always setting an example of a loving, caring, and supportive home. She always hoped that Erica would find someone to share her life with and was so delighted and welcoming to her son in law, Nate. If Erica becomes even half the mother and wife Judi was, then she’ll know she is doing alright.

Judi was a devoted sister to Janis. She always helped her be a better person leading by example. Judi was always thinking through every situation way more than Janis ever did and saved her on numerous occasions. They were sisters and best friends forever. Their bond will never be broken. And she loved her brother-in-law, “Sir Thomas” very much…they had a special relationship.

Judi was the best dog mom to 4 very spoiled and well cared for Boston Terriers, with Bailey being their current pooch. Bailey misses Judi and can’t quite figure out what is going on.

Judi and Mark were married almost 45 years. They were each other’s best friend. Mark appreciated all the things Judi was so good at. Best cook and baker in the world. She had many specialties that she shared with family and friends. There were so many, but a few that stand out were her danish puff, daffodil cake, sugar cookies, mint brownies, beef tenderloin, beef stroganoff, chopped meat and noodles, stir fry and cheesy potatoes. Judi kept a neat and tidy home, always warm and welcoming. She never met a stranger. Mark was always Judi’s rock, but never more than the last 2 years as she battled cancer. He was with her for every step of this journey, never wavering in his love and commitment to her. It was his greatest honor to be by her side with much patience and comfort.

Judi always looked forward to summertime at the lake. She loved to go for boat rides, but she preferred the pontoon boat Mark got her after a few too many times of rough water in other boats. She loved to sit on the deck and enjoy the lake breeze, warm sun, and good conversations. Judi always tried to find an excuse to have a bonfire simply to make pudgy pies or s’mores.

Judi’s passing has left a great void in all of our hearts. She can never be replaced and will never be forgotten. We take solace in knowing she is reunited with her mom and dad and infant son, Jason.

We love you, Judi. You were one in a million and had a heart of gold. Thank you for all you did for us…we are eternally grateful.

LOVE ALWAYS,

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Judi is survived by her husband, Mark Kleist; son, Adam (Jessica) Kleist; daughter, Erica (Nate) Swartz; sister, Janis (Tom) Sigmund; brother, David Bielawski; grandchildren, Dylan Muzik, Madelyn and Olivia Swartz; and mother-in-law, Dolores Chromasta. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Rosemary Bielawski; father-in-law, Harold Kleist; and infant son, Jason.

A funeral service will be held at Gunderson Lodi Funeral and Cremation Care, 157 S. Main St., Lodi, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the start of the service on Saturday.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson Lodi

Funeral & Cremation Care

157 S. Main St.

(608) 592-3201

Judith Ellen Kleist

March 22, 1956 - February 02, 2023

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