Judith "Judy" Vermeland-Wendt, passed away peacefully at her home in Minneapolis on January 12, 2026. Her life was rich with books, Bridge, family, and friends.

Born in Minneapolis in 1937, she moved with her family to Fergus Falls, then to Moorhead, MN where she graduated from Moorhead High School. She then studied at North Dakota State University, joined the Gamma Phi Beta sorority, and served as yearbook editor. After graduating from college, she married Don Vermeland and started her family, eventually moving back to Minneapolis.

A lifelong learner, she earned an MA in Library Science from the University of Minnesota; she loved being in graduate school. She went on to have a fulfilling career as a Media Generalist at Webster Magnet School in St. Paul Public Schools, developing special connections with her young students. It was there that she began playing Bridge with the Highland Bridge Players and created friendships that lasted for more than 50 years.

After retirement, she volunteered at the reference desk at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, became an active member of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), where she helped with the library. After the death of Hans, her husband of 30 years, she moved to the Kenwood Isles Condominiums, a community she loved being a part of. There, she helped in the library, was the Association President, and was on the Terrace Committee. She also happily played Bridge twice a week with the Bridge group. Her hobbies included needlework, thrifting, reading, and playing Bridge. She described her life as a wonderful journey with family and friends. She was proud of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchild and Hans' children, grandchildren and great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her beloved second husband, Dr. Hans Wendt. Judy is survived by her brother, Robert Hammer (Lynn); her children, David (Jackie), Cate (Linda), and Tom (Susan); her grandchildren, Erik, Peter (Madeleine), Sarah, and Michael (Beta); one great-grandchild; and Hans’ loving family.

A celebration of Judy’s life will take place on Saturday, February 7, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at Kenwood Isles Condominiums, located at 1425 West 28th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408. The celebration includes an open house, a short service at 11:30, and an opportunity to share stories with Judy's family. Light refreshments will be served. Wear your favorite color!

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the ACLU of Minnesota, https://www.aclu-mn.org/ways-give/ and the Animal Humane Society of Minnesota https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/