Obituary
Judith Ann Pahnke
Judith Ann Pahnke, 78, of La Crosse, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 13, 2022 at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse. I was born on November 13, 1943 at St. Ann’s Hospital in La Crosse to Robert Francis Walter and Beverly Jean Libke. I was second of three children born to their marriage. The marriage ended and mother raised us. I married Jerry Roger Jeffers in 1967. Born to us was Julie Ann and Jason Roger Jeffers. Julie died in a car accident at 8 years old. With the death of Julie, Jerry divorced me. Jason at 18 years old was entered the Army as was stationed in Hawaii. He disappeared and was declared AWOL. I went to Con. Gunderson who forced the Army to investigate. The Army declared Jason dead November of 1991 at the age of 20. His body was never found. I was in nursing school when Julie died and became an RN. Don and I were arranged to meet by Don’s daughter Beth and by my sister-in-law’s sister Lorina. Don lost his wife Sharon and he raised his seven children himself. The are Beth, Shelly, Paulette, Wendy, Andrea, Brian, and Darin. We have 14 grandchildren. Don is a gentle giant and doesn’t know it. He is such a good man. How lucky I was to meet him.
I was preceded in death by my parents; and Children, Julie and Jason; and many aunts and uncles.
The family will remember Judith for her love of quilting in the winter and made quilts for all the kids and grandkids, planting flowers and vegetables that Don grew from seed, and canning vegetables.
She would help anyone who had a problem. She enjoyed playing cards, going to the casino 3 times a year, going to see Willie Nelson and listening to Billie Holiday. She loved to play corny jokes and she will really be missed.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason St. Onalaska, with visitation from 10:00 am until the time of the service.
I am so sorry to never have met you, Judith, we are friends and neighbors of Beth and Tom. I knew Sharon and know she would have approved of your marriage to Don. Our deepest sympathy to Don and the entire family. You brought joy to all of them.
My cousin, Judy, was so special to me. I especially remember her from my birthday parties and her keeping a watchful eye on me at the family gatherings. She always had a smile on her face. Rest in peace, Judy. Love, Debbie (Rita’s and John’s daughter)
Thankful I got to meet you and Don when visiting with Shelly a few years back. I know you were a part of many memories made as well as a loving companion. Peace be with all of your family.