Obituary of Judith Mary Turenne

Judith Mary Turenne 66 

 

Judy Turenne, beloved educator, cherished family member, and dear friend, passed away on March 30, 2024, at Methodist Hospital, St. Louis Park, after a valiant battle with a prolonged illness and disability. She was surrounded by the love of her friends and family in the final days of her life.

 

Born in St. Cloud, MN, on October 13, 1957, Judy spent her childhood immersed in various states and even in Okinawa, Japan, as her father served in the military. In 6th grade, her family settled in International Falls permanently. Judy excelled academically, graduating with honors from St. Thomas Catholic School and later from Falls Senior High.

 

Driven by her passion for communication, Spanish, and French, Judy pursued higher education at St. Cloud State University, where she also graduated with honors. During her time at university, she had the opportunity to study abroad in France and Spain, further enriching her understanding of language and culture.

 

Judy embarked on a fulfilling career in education, becoming known as "Senora Turenne" at Warroad High School, where she established and nurtured Spanish and French language programs. Her dedication to teaching extended beyond the classroom as she served as a tour director for community education, leading groups of students and adults on unforgettable journeys to Spain, France, Italy, and Mexico during summers.

 

Her commitment to her colleagues and the education community was evident through her election to union president with local Education Minnesota, Warroad, where she passionately represented Warroad teachers. In addition, she served in various capacities in the Kramer-Brown intermediate organization and in Education Minnesota state level. Her voice on behalf of educators, especially those in Greater Minnesota, was strong and influential at the state and national levels. 

 

Judy's warmth and generosity endeared her to all who knew her. She was a devoted daughter, a loving sister, and a cherished aunt to her nieces and nephews. Judy was fun and had an infectious zest for life. She was often the heart and soul of any gathering. She made time for the many people she loved. She resided in Warroad, where she taught, but cherished her summers in International Falls.  She enjoyed the family cabin on Rainy Lake, sharing her love for the area with many.

 

Judy was predeceased by her parents, Paul and Marcia Turenne, and is survived by her siblings, Cathy Gordon (Tom Kupka), Tom Turenne, Susie Amidon (George), Paula Molnau (Keith), John Turenne, Mike Turenne (Nikki Braaten),  her beloved nieces and nephews, Paul Amidon (Toriah), Charlie Gordon (Felisha), Katie, John and Elizabeth Molnau, her great-niece, Octavia Amidon and great nephew, Sage Amidon, as well as countless loving friends who will forever cherish her memory.

  

A funeral celebration of Judy's life will be held on Friday, June 7th, 2024 at Christ Our Light Catholic Church, 804 7th Ave South, Princeton, MN 5537, at 11 a.m. with her friend, Fr. Kevin Anderson, officiating. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Condolences or donor’s choice of memorials in honor of Judy may be mailed to individual family members or sent to “Family of Judy Turenne” 418 5th Street, International Falls, MN 56649.