Obituary for Judy A. Vick

Judith “Judy” Vick passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, surrounded by many loved ones. Her life was a radiant journey filled with love, laughter, joy, and unshakable generosity. Judy never took a single day for granted and embraced each moment with warmth, grace, and an open heart.

Judy found her greatest happiness in the people she loved. She married Bob Vick on August 27, 2011, and together they built a life full of companionship—marked by scenic country drives, spontaneous outings, card games with friends, and countless cherished moments with their children and grandchildren.

Before her life with Bob, Judy was the proud wife of Richard “Dick” Riley and the devoted mother of Scott, Chris, and Shawn. She adored her boys and welcomed her daughters-in-law into the family with open arms, warm hugs, and a heart overflowing with love.

In addition to her sons, Judy was blessed with a bonus family through Bob’s children: Chad (Shannon) Vick, Kimberly Spors, Katie (Drew) Reding, and Ryan (Jessica) Vick. She fully embraced these relationships and loved each of her twelve grandchildren deeply: Abigail, Angela, Amanda, Jax, Chase, Joshua, Brylee, Cadyn, Anna, Kash, Adelyn, and Brooklyn.

Judy absolutely loved attending her grandchildren’s activities. She and Bob traveled to countless games, races, concerts, and events—always there to cheer from the sidelines or beam with pride in the audience. Nothing brought her more joy than watching the young ones she loved so much thrive and grow.

But of all the roles Judy held, none meant more to her than being “Nana.” From the moment her first grandchild was born; she embraced that title with boundless pride and devotion. She was Nana to:

-Jordan (Liz) and Alyssa (Tyler), children of Scott and Jackie -McKenna and Brandon, children of Chris and Kim -Dulce (Caelum) and Milo, children of Shawn and Diane

She was later promoted to Great-nana to Walker, Tinley, and Emery, each one bringing even more joy to her already full heart.

Judy’s love for children extended far beyond her own family. When Jane and Tom welcomed her into their home as a nanny, she quickly became “Nana” to Andrew and Clare, who loved her as their own. Whether by birth or by bond, many nieces, nephews, and friends’ children came to know and love her simply as “Nana”—a role she filled with compassion, laughter, and unconditional care.

She had a zest for life that showed in the little things she loved to do. Judy enjoyed leisurely drives through the countryside, countless bus trips, and planting flowers each spring. She took great pride in her beautifully kept yard and patio and was known for maintaining a meticulously clean home—a true reflection of the care and pride she poured into everything she touched. Creative and thoughtful, she loved making and gifting handmade towels and potholders, and she was the go-to seamstress for family and friends—always ready to hem, mend, or sew whatever was needed with skill and love.

Judy also had a sweet tooth, with a soft spot for Charlie Brown cookies from the local bakery. She was always up for a spontaneous shopping trip and cherished the time spent with her friends, especially during their monthly get-togethers, which were filled with conversation, laughter, and lasting connection.

A true foodie, Judy loved Friday night fish fry’s, chicken Q’s, and discovering new local favorites. One of her most treasured traditions was enjoying lunch at 4 Sisters Restaurant with her own sisters—Mary, Bobbi, and Rhonda. The "Four Sisters at 4 Sisters" was more than a clever name—it was a beloved ritual, rich with love and laughter.

Judy shared strong, lifelong bonds with her siblings and filled every room she entered with humor, warmth, and light. Her laugh was contagious, her kindness unshakable, and her generosity unending. She made everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved.

Her life was extended through the incredible gift of a liver transplant—her “second chance”—made possible by her donor, Ryan, whom she lovingly referred to as her guardian angel. That gift gave her many more years of good health and precious time with her loved ones, which she lived with deep gratitude and grace.

Judy is preceded in death by her first husband, Dick Riley; her beloved daughter-in-law, Kim Riley; her parents, Robert and Gladys; her brother, Ronnie; special nephew, Terry Zabel; and many cherished relatives and friends whom she now rejoins with a joyful smile.

Her legacy is one of unconditional love, strength, compassion, and joyful giving. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives on in every memory, every story, and every person who ever had the honor of calling her “Nana.”

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the medical oncology unit and palliative care team at Gundersen Health System for their compassion and care during Judy’s battle with cancer. Their kindness brought comfort during a difficult time and will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 359 Leonard St N, West Salem, WI 54669. The funeral service begins at 4:00 p.m., with dinner to follow.

Online condolences may be offered at this site.