Judith "Judy" Kathleen Rich

Judith K. “Judy” Rich, 79, of West Bend, passed away on February 7, 2025, at Touchstone Living Care in West Bend with family by her side.

Judy was born on July 23, 1945, at the Great Lakes Naval Station Hospital in Waukegan, Illinois, the beloved daughter of the late Arthur and Mildred (née Beauchamp) Rich. Judy resided in Kenosha, WI for much of her life before spending her final years in West Bend, WI. She had a deep love for creativity and nature, spending countless hours journaling, writing letters, crafting, and drawing. She also cherished her Native American heritage and was an avid collector of indigenous art and décor. Above all, Judy’s greatest joy in life was being a devoted mother to her son, Michael. Together, they shared a love of music, classic movies, and attending St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Kenosha, WI. 

Judy’s heart was always drawn to helping others, especially those with disabilities and those in need. Her compassionate spirit led her to help manage the Bridges Program in Kenosha, WI, a welcoming space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds could gather for activities, games, and home-cooked meals. Her unwavering dedication to kindness and service left a lasting impact on many lives. 

She is survived by her loving son, Michael Rich; three sisters, Alice Belongia, Shirley Roberg, and Geraldine Raeburn Meehan; nieces and nephews, Cherie (Brad) Vita-Lenk, Darlene Vita, James (Tamra) Roberg, Joseph (Heather) Roberg, Eight additional Nieces and Nephews; Seventeen Great Nieces & Nephews; as well as many other cherished family, friends and caregivers. 

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Mildred Rich, and two brothers-in-law, LeRoy Belongia and Thomas Meehan. 

Judy’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for others will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A private Celebration of Life will be held in her honor. 

The Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Judy’s arrangements. Additional information and Guestbook may be found on www.myrhum-patten.com.