DePiero, Judith

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our sister, Judith Elaine DePiero, 68, on Wednesday April 13, 2011, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Born January 10, 1943, raised in Thunder Bay, Judy attended local schools and St. Agnes’ Church where she was a member of the Catholic Womens Leaague. She worked as a lab technician at McKellar General Hospital from 1961-1969. Returning to school, she received a B.A. and B. Ed. from Lakehead University and Bachelor of Journalism from Carleton University. Following a brief time as a news reporter, Judy began teaching at the high school in Strathroy Ontario. She returned home to join the Thunder Bay District School Board, retiring from the English Department of St. Patrick’s High School. Judy was a dedicated teacher who loved the challenge and the rewards of her career. Judith had a wide variety of interests. She was a successful athlete, coach, life guard and swim instructor. She was equally able to discuss the working of her solar system or 2- stroke engine as well as the complexity of politics, Shakespeare or the current Broadway play. Judy was supportive of her many friends and was especially devoted to all her immediate and extended family. She was exceedingly proud of all of their accomplishments. Judy lived her life the way she wanted- strong-willed, determined and independent. These qualities are her legacy to us. She is survived by her sisters Sylvia Kayzer, Ginny Jennings and Evelyn DePiero (Steve) and brother Ken DePiero (Tami) nephews, Michael Kayzer, Terry and Tim Lunn, D.J. DePiero and nieces Suzanne Kruppa, Patricia and Jaden DePiero. Great nieces and nephews Ryan and Mark Kruppa, Matthew and Tia Lunn, Logan and Mallory Lunn, Nickolas and Rebecca Skirten. Judy was predeceased by her mother Ida (Moro) 1986, father Louis (1996) brothers David (1979) and John (1991), nephew Gary (2005) brother-in-law Alex Kayzer (2011) and other relatives.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 16, 2011, when family and friends will gather for Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Church celebrated by Rev. James Panikulam. Interment will follow in the family plot at Mountain View Cemetery. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorials to the Salvation Army, District Humane Society or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

A tree will be planted in memory of Judith DePiero in the Blake Funeral Chapel Memorial Grove. Annual dedication service Sunday, June 10, 2012.