Judy Hurdelbrink

Judith Ann Hurdelbrink died peacefully in her sleep on February 3, 2018.

A funeral service will be held at 2 pm on Thursday, February 8, 2018 at First Lutheran Church, Mandan, with Rev. Christina Martin officiating.  Burial will be in the spring in Sherwood, ND.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm on Wednesday, February 7 at Buehler-Larson Funeral Home, Mandan, with a Prayer service at 7 pm.  Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

Judy was born May 31, 1946 in Minot, North Dakota to Bryce and Ruthie Henderson. She grew up in Sherwood, the third of five children. Judy graduated from Sherwood High School in 1964, where she was salutorian of her class. She earned a Bachelor of Education at Minot State University in 1968. Judy married Richard George Hurdelbrink, also of Sherwood, on November 4, 1967. They had three children, Tim, Terri and Jessica, and made their home in Mandan.

Judy taught elementary school for decades within the Mandan School District, primarily at Custer Elementary. Judy cared for each and every one of her students deeply and wrote in a letter, "it is the responsibility of the teacher to bring out the best and highest level possible for each child." Lovingly known as "Mrs. H.," she received the Golden Apple award in 1996, and left a lasting impression on hundreds of students and parents, before she retired in May 2008. Students and their parents would frequently send notes or stop by to see their favorite teacher for advice and her warm smile. She was also loved among her coworkers and continued close friendships with many educators in the area.

There is so much more to Judy than words can describe. She was the glue that held her family together, and would do anything for her loved ones. She loved to read (especially Harry Potter) and played a mean game of pinochle (but she would always let you keep your nickels when she won). Judy was an active member of First Lutheran Church, in Mandan. She enjoyed a special girls trip every year with her childhood friends, as well as attending monthly games and book groups. She spent much of her time traveling to see or hosting her loved ones. All of her grandchildren have experienced many of their favorite times at "Gramma's House," where freshly baked treats were always available and the candy drawer was always stocked.

Judy had a kind smile, a huge heart and a warm, welcoming demeanor that captivated anyone lucky enough to share her company. Teaching never stopped for Judy, as she was passionate about supporting and shaping the lives of her grandchildren. Being a grandma was the true joy of Judy's life, especially during her 10 years of retirement. Judy will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her. Her focus in life was caring for others and every action was guided to help her loved ones or bring them joy. This was summed up by a statement Judy wrote to her parents on their 40th wedding anniversary, "If we could have the best in the world, we'd give it all to you." Judy would have done the same for any of her loved ones, and the sentiment was mutual.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Rick Hurdelbrink, and her parents, Bryce and Ruthie Henderson. She is survived by her children: Tim (Theresa), Terri (John), and Jessica (Adam); her grandchildren: Cara, Kristen, Jordyn, Isla and Marshall, with her sixth grandchild expected in May 2018; her sister, Jane (Rolly), and her brothers, Bruce (Jan), David, and John (Nanci).