Judy Ann Welch

Judy Welch, 67, of Forreston, passed away at UW Health Hospital Madison on March 9, 2024 after a long and courageous battle with IPF. Judy was born to Maurice and Mildred (Millard) Ashton on August 22, 1956 in Rockford IL.

Judy graduated from Mt. Morris High School in 1974. On November 2, 1979, Judy married the love of her life, Robert Welch, in Cedarville, IL. Together they raised their three children in German Valley, IL. While raising her children she had various jobs before returning to Highland Community College to pursue a career in healthcare where she became a certified monitor technician and phlebotomist. She took genuine interest in each person she cared for and worked with, leaving a lasting impact on all those she encountered. She dedicated over 20 years working at FHN and Monroe Clinic until she retired in 2017 due to illness.

Judy never complained instead she showed incredible strength throughout the years. She fearlessly faced challenges, including her battles with illnesses, surviving breast cancer in 1995 and a lung transplant in 2020, with Bobby by her side. Their love and unwavering support for each other was a testament to their bond. They found time for traveling adventures on their motorcycle and some RV trips. Judy had dreams of exploring even more beautiful places in their RV along with their dog, Max.

Judy’s greatest joy came from her children and grandchildren. She cherished spending time with her grandchildren by creating special memories for many years on their Wednesday adventures at Nina’s, as she was lovingly called. Judy made everyone feel cherished and loved, always ensuring that family gatherings were filled with laughter and joy.

She wanted to be remembered as a happy and caring person who had a heart full of love for others. Her unwavering faith in God, sense of humor, and willingness to help those in need defined who she was. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and joy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Judy is survived by her loving husband Robert of Forreston, their three children, Christine (Jeffrey) Zipse, German Valley IL, Tammy (Brian) Pals, Leaf River IL, and Brian (Angel) Welch, New Glarus WI. Her cherished grandchildren Rees, Cole, Luke, and Lily Zipse; Josie and Cassie Pals; and Kaelyn Welch. Her siblings Gene (Deb) Ashton, James (Cathy) Ashton, Ken (Vickie) Ashton, and Lori (Brad) Allen. Her in-laws Melvin and Eldora Welch, brother-in-law Todd (Melody) Welch, and sisters-in-law Pam (Fred) Stampfli, Annette (Al) Donker and Tina (Terry) Beyer. Along with several nieces and nephews who also held a special place in her heart, some will always remember her as their Aunt Juju. Her special friend group, her CAW friends, who brought her much joy and laughter.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Arlene Kneezle.

Visitation will be held at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home Freeport, Saturday March 16th at 9:00 am until the time of funeral services at 11:00 am. Cremation rights have been accorded. A private entombment will be held at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Following funeral service a celebration of life luncheon for all will be held at Cedarville Emmanuel Church, 175 N. Cedar St., Cedarville, IL. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Judy's name.