Judith K. Sorenson

Judith K. Sorenson, affectionately known as Judy passed away peacefully on August 20, 2024, in Milwaukee, WI. Born on September 14, 1942, in Joliet, IL, Judy's warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her throughout her 81 years.

Judy grew up in Lockport, Illinois, where she attended Lockport Township High School. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to Joliet Junior College, where she trained for secretarial work, laying the foundation for a career that would span decades. Judy's professional journey took her from Chicago to Madison, then to Milwaukee where she expanded her role. Her dedication and hard work were evident when she became the Executive Director for the Wisconsin Bakers Association in the late 80's until 1999. Her influence helped in facilitating and expanding culinary arts scholarship programs at MATC and WCTC. Her role also included proudly running the Cream Puff bakery at Wisconsin State Fair. She was affectionately known as the Cream Puff Queen during those days. Her career path then took a magical turn as she spent a decade working for Walt Disney World from 2000 to 2010, bringing joy and creating memories until her well-deserved retirement.

Judy was very proud of her Norwegian heritage and never hesitated to talk about or share stories and traditions. She was a proud member of Son's of Norway.

Beyond her professional life, Judy was a pillar of her family. She was a loving mother to her daughter Sara, a dear sister to Trude and Susan, a cherished mother in-law to Joe, an adoring grandmother to Emma, a caring foster parent and wonderful aunt to her nieces and nephews. Her family was the center of her universe, and she extended her nurturing spirit to her many other relatives and friends, who felt her love in countless ways.

Judy's selflessness was evident. She gave her time generously, helping her family and placing the needs of others before her own. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, and she lived by the well-known words of God, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" Judy embodied this sentiment, finding joy in the simple acts of caring for her granddaughter, assisting family and friends, and contributing to the lives of those around her.

Her interests were as diverse as they were heartwarming. Judy found pleasure in the quiet moments spent doing word finds, listening to her favorite music, bird watching and staying connected with loved ones. Her ability to maintain and cherish relationships was unparalleled, and she often reached out to ensure that friends and family felt supported and valued.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Truman and Kathryn Knutson (nee Barcus), Her sister Candace Ann Clanfield(Knutson) and other family members and friends.

Judy will be remembered as a loving, selfless, and faith-filled woman. Her presence was a comfort, her laughter a joy, and her guidance a steadying force. The impact of her kindness and the depth of her compassion are the legacies she leaves behind.

As we say goodbye to Judith K. Sorenson, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life full of love, service, and the quiet grace of everyday kindness. Her memory will be a beacon for all who knew her, inspiring us to live with the same generosity of spirit that Judy so effortlessly embodied.

Rest in peace Mom- Judy, Your love and light will continue to shine on in me and the hearts of your family, friends, and the many lives you've touched.

Her Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Max A. Sass Funeral Home, Mission Hills Chapel,  in Franklin, WI. Visitation is from 2-4pm with a memorial service at 4pm. Memorial donations in Judy's name may be made to the family, Wisconsin Humane society and the Children's Heart Foundation.

There will be a smaller service in Lockport, IL sometime in October.