Judith Jean Walker

Judy passed away Sept. 27, 2011 in her home at the age of 65. She was born in Bothell, Wash., on Nov. 11, 1945 to August (Gus) and Therese Snyder (Schertenlieb), the third of five children. Although she moved to Tonasket at age 11 with her family she always considered Bothell home and cherished those memories.

Judy had a passion for music and was a talented singer and gifted musician. Her natural talent was unique and ranged from the 12-string guitar to the piano and the accordion.

As a devoted mother and loving wife, Judy spent a variety of years working in the community. Her most recent and perhaps her most cherished work would have been the 12 years she spent as a teacher’s aide in the Tonasket School District. Caring and loving, she was an advocate for the underprivileged reaching out to those who may have otherwise been overlooked.

A private person, Judy was a woman of tenacious but silent strength and always the keeper of the peace. She loved animals compassionately and was known to rescue and find homes for those in need.

Judy is survived by her husband of over 46 years, Sam Walker; her four daughters: Wendy Walker, Kristi Walker-Reese (Jick), Katie Walker and Jill Ayers (Jason); sister, Helen Snyder; brothers: Kirk and Karl Snyder; step grandchildren: Kody and Taylor Ayers; and grandchildren: Kalli Reese, Arlee Walker-Nicholson, Walker and Karlee Ayers, Vance Reese and Maycee Ayers.

She was preceded in death by her sister, LaVada Miracle and her parents.

A graveside service will be held Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, 1 p.m., at the Wauconda Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to the Wauconda Community Hall for fellowship immediately following. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Judy’s name may be made to the Okanogan County Animal Foster Care Association, 4 Spring Coulee Road, Okanogan, WA, 98840 or Howling Ridge Rescue, PO Box 1940, Tonasket, WA 98855.

A heartfelt thanks to Peggy Roulet from Hospice and the tender and dedicated care she provided to both Judy and the family.

Please share your thoughts and memories by signing Judy’s online guestbook at www.berghfuneralservice.com

Bergh Funeral Service of Oroville/Tonasket in care of arrangements.