Judi Ann Buckalew, 79, of Terre Haute, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2020, at the Gibson Family Center for Hospice Care. Judi was the first baby of the New Year at Auburn Hospital in upstate NY, born to Donald B. Van Liere and Olive “Dolly” Van Liere. Judi is survived by her husband of 55 years, James, her son Lee (Mary), and her daughter Courtney (Seth) Buckalew Kramer, as well as six grandchildren: LeighAnna Buckalew, Marissa Buckalew, Jesse Buckalew, Larkyn Buckalew, Aaron Kramer, and Eliot Kramer. Judi is also survived by her four siblings, James (Stephanie) Van Liere, David (Vicki) Van Liere, Joseph (Kathy) Van Liere, and Dona (Sid) Wolford, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

 

Judi grew up and spent most of her life in upstate New York, before she and James moved to Terre Haute in 2016, to be closer to their children and grandchildren. She graduated from the University of Buffalo in 1962, with a BS in nursing, and received her master’s degree in nursing from NYU in 1964. Much of Judi’s career was spent as a nurse educator at the ARC of Monroe, in Rochester, NY. In her hometown of Wolcott, NY, Judi dedicated her time and energy to the school board, where she served as a member and president, as well as the local Rotary Club, where she also served as president for a time. For 21 years, Judi devoted her love and knowledge to Rotary Camp Onseyawa, a true outdoor summer experience for children who would be excluded from other programs. Judi spent many years as camp nurse, followed by many more as Assistant Director. Judi’s other passion was history, specifically local. She was an active member of the Wolcott (NY) Historical Society, and became a member and volunteer of the Vigo County Historical Society almost immediately upon moving to Terre Haute.

 

Judi will be remembered for the clear voice of compassion, care, and reason she brought to almost every setting, from church to work to family dinners, and for the deep sense of love and commitment she brought to her life and instilled in her family.

 

In honoring her wishes, cremation has been chosen. A memorial celebrating Judi’s life will be held at Terre Haute First Baptist Church, 4701 Poplar Street in Terre Haute, on Saturday, November 7, at 2pm EST, with Pastor John Campbell officiating. This is where Judi found her spiritual home in Terre Haute. NOTE: In keeping with best COVID-19 practices, and honoring Judi’s wishes for the health and safety of her family and friends, please follow social distancing guidelines and wear a face covering to attend her memorial. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream will be provided at: www.thfbc.org/fbconline

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Vigo County Historical Society or Hospice of the Wabash Valley.

 

Condolences and memories may be left at:

www.greinerfuneralhome.com