Judith Anne Bentz

Passed away unexpectedly at age 78.

Judy was a strong and beautiful woman. She was humble, kind and no-nonsense; a natural caregiver who worked as an adult foster care provider most of her life. Judy grew up in St. Paul, MN, and enjoyed spending time with her parents, her sister’s family, aunts and cousins in Pine City. She remained a beloved member of the Grewe family despite no longer being married into it.  

Judy was a devoted wife to Richard Bentz for 40 years. Their best days were spent with their grandchildren: Trinity (Sam) Woolery, Chase (McKenzie), Haley and Ian Macklem. Later in life, Judy and Rick enjoyed several years in Las Vegas, Arizona and New Mexico, spending time and working with Rick’s sons, before eventually moving back to Minnesota. Judy was the love of Rick’s life.

A proud, supportive mom to Kristin (Brad) Macklem and Michael Grewe, Judy gave one hundred percent to her kids, who were involved in many sports and activities. She won the “Hockey Mom of the Year” award back in the Midway Blue Line days (and, yes, there was a cowbell involved). Judy was the mom who drove everybody to and from the roller rink, every Friday night for many years. Some favorite memories include spending time together at the beach, going to drive-in movies in our pajamas, and camping in the big blue bus. 

Judy was known for crying (tears of joy) whenever anyone had a special moment or shared good news; a beautiful trait that Kris inherited after teasing her mom about it all those years.

Judy was a wonderful, loving grandma to Chase, Haley, Ian, and especially Trinity. Grandma Judy and Papa Rick hosted countless sleepovers. The kids were allowed to drink “cossee” (milk with a splash of coffee), pick all of grandma’s flowers from the garden to make fancy hats, build elaborate forts and play in the dog kennel. Chase especially enjoyed grandma’s foot rubs. He and his wife have two boys now, while Trinity and her husband are expecting their first baby (a girl) in June. We know Judy will watch over those babies and continue to enjoy all of our special moments from above.

A private celebration of Judy’s life will be held at a later date.