Judy Close

OREGON- Judy Close, age 76, of Fitchburg, passed away in the early evening of Monday, Nov. 6, 2017, at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg.  An aggressive cancer had taken hold of her body, and she was called home.  Judy arrived in this world as the daughter of Earl and Marion (Peg) Mast in Milwaukee, and spent her childhood growing up on the family farm in Dalton.  She had a love for sewing, reading, counted cross stitch and music.  She attended Columbia County Teachers College, Columbus, Wis.  A music teacher, Judy was incredibly talented.  Her passion for playing the piano and organ was shared with those in church, and passed on to those that she taught.  However, her modesty showed through in that she was never truly comfortable playing for an audience.  In 1961, she married the love of her life, Rhody Close.  Together, they built a home and raised their own family in Fitchburg. Judy and Rhody were very much a team and were not afraid to pave their own path.  In 1987, they opened Rhody’s Truck and Tractor, and ran their own successful business for 19 years.  Their dreams were mutual, and their love and dedication for each other was an inspiration for many that knew them.  Judy enjoyed spending time at the cabin which she and Rhody built.  She especially enjoyed having coffee on the porch with the numerous friends and family that came to visit and stay.  Judy had a very caring nature, and a huge heart for those that graced her with their love.  A contagious laugh blessed those that spent any reasonable amount of time with her.  Her large circle of friends is a direct result of her kindness and compassion.  She held strength in her convictions, never faltering on what she felt was right, yet she possessed a sense of humor that lightened the spirits for many who needed it.  Her true joy in life was found in the successes of those she adored.  Judy is survived by her loving family, Jody and Brenda, Dean and Mary Jo; and grandchildren, Scott (Cait), Riley (Crystal), Katlyn (Patrick) and Jacob. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Rhody; and a daughter.  Funeral services will be held at GREENWOOD CHURCH, Dalton, Wis., at 1 p.m., on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, with the Rev. Kathleen Owens presiding.  Burial will immediately follow the service at the Greenwood Cemetery located across the street from the church.  In lieu of flowers or memorial contributions, please perform a random act of kindness to carry on with Judy’s caring nature and huge heart.  The family would like to thank her doctors and nurses at Meriter Hospital and to the staff at Agrace HospiceCare for their caring service.  Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.  Gunderson Oregon Funeral & Cremation Care 1150 Park Street (608)835-3515