Judy Higdem, 74
Judy Higdem, 74, died May 19, 2011, with her family by her side in Coeur d'Alene.
She was born Nov. 26, 1936, in Grand Forks, N.D., to Richard and Grace Jagd. Her father was Chief of Police for Grand Forks and her mother was a homemaker.
Judy was raised in Grand Forks. After graduation, she went on to teach in a one-room school on the North Dakota prairie. She met Gene Higdem on a blind date at a hockey game and they married soon after on Feb. 1, 1956. As a family who relocated often over the years due to her husband's employment with the Forest Service (which included moving the family to Grangeville, Bozeman, Kalispell, Missoula, Libby and Coeur d'Alene,) Judy always made sure that wherever she was, that was home.
She held various jobs focusing on the care and support of others, as well as being the best homemaker she could be. Arriving in Coeur d'Alene in 1979 and not content to sit still, Judy achieved her LPN certification from North Idaho College. Upon Gene's retirement in 1990, they moved to Hamilton, Mont., where Judy was employed with the Daly Mansion. In 2001, Judy and Gene moved back to Coeur d'Alene to be near their children and families.
"Mom" was a simple and true person, happiest with her immediate and extended family. Armed with a warm and ready smile, she made everyone feel as though she was their mom and grandma as well. Whether puttering in her yard, feeding the birds, junking at the antique and thrift stores, or taking naps with Keiko the pug, she was happy and content with her life and home and extended family.
Judy is survived by her husband, Gene; sister JoAnn Dunlap; brother Bob Jagd; three children and their spouses, Brian, Diane and Robert; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Ken Jagd and sister Dorthea Larson.
There will be no service at her request.
"Mom, the enormity of your absence only begins to measure the loss we all feel with your passing. You were a much loved person and will remain so in our hearts and minds."
Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements.