Obituary

Judy, of St Paul, Minnesota left this world peacefully at the age of 84 leaving behind a legacy of kindness, music, and unwavering love for her family, friends and community. Born in Jamestown, North Dakota, Judy was the daughter of Martin and Merle Zimmerman and sister of Joel, who preceded her in death. Judy is survived by her brother Dr. Tony Zimmerman (Dee), of Kirkland, WA, sister Cathy Smith, (Bill), of West Concord, MN; her loving husband of almost 61 years, Roy Wolff; her four children, Dan (Jeni), Maria (Eric), Kevin (Amy), and Matt (Ethiopia); her nine adoring grandchildren MacKenzie (Josh), Anna (Jordan), Ella, Leo, Jada, Greta, Gabe, Tatum, and Sam; and one great-grandchild Payton, all of whom brought her endless joy in her later years. Judy grew up in McHenry, ND and Seattle, WA and graduated from Blanchet High School in 1958, and from Marylhurst College of Portland Oregon in 1963.

She was a concert pianist during her college years and shared her extraordinary musical gifts with countless audiences. Playing piano throughout her entire life, Judy filled her home, church and family gatherings with music, creating memories her family will always cherish. Judy believed deeply in assuming the best in people. Her life was a lesson in acceptance and inclusion, values she instilled in her children and grandchildren. Whether through a heartfelt conversation or one of her amazing smiles, she made everyone feel seen and valued. Her gift for connecting with people was extraordinary — she could turn strangers into friends with ease. She dedicated over 25 years of her career to Metro ECSU (St Paul, MN) as a special education supervisor, working tirelessly to support numerous disability communities. Her leadership generated tremendous professional growth for countless educators. In a fitting tribute to her profound impact, Metro ECSU renamed their library in her honor — a lasting reminder of her contributions and commitment to serving others. Outside of her professional life, Judy loved gardening, spending time with her family, and helping anyone in need. To all who knew her, Judy was the "Giving Tree" in human form —a source of generosity, support, and unconditional love. Despite living with Alzheimer's Disease for five years, Judy continued to make special connections with all she encountered. Judy's love, music, and spirit will continue to echo through the lives of those who knew her. Her greatest legacy is not only in the family who adored her but in the countless people she uplifted along the way.