JUDITH KOVAL

KOVAL April 29, 1958 - December 29, 2025
With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Judith Anne "Judy" Koval, age 67, on December 29, 2025. Born in Sioux Lookout, Ontario, on April 29, 1958, Judy left this world peacefully, surrounded by the love of those who cherished her. Judy spent her early childhood in Pickle Lake, embraced by her close-knit family and the many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who helped shape her life. When she moved to Thunder Bay at age nine, she continued to build meaningful friendships and discovered new passions that brought her joy. Judy had a remarkable gift for creating family wherever she went. She believed that love, not blood alone, was what made people belong to one another. Her compassion extended to animals as well, from her beloved dogs and cats to rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, and even Tangles, the pet fox. In 1979, Judy married Tom Charban, and in April 1980 she welcomed her son, Jason Alexander, the greatest joy and love of her life. Though Judy and Tom later separated, their bond as family remained. In 1999, Judy found love again with her partner, Bruce Frost. With Bruce came Lucas, Jennifer, and Matt, whom she embraced wholeheartedly as her own. As her family grew, so did her love. Judy's heart expanded to include Jason's partner, Ashley, who became another daughter she this always wanted. Ashley stepped into that role with tenderness, compassion, and deep love. The greatest gift Judy received was her grandson, Calen, a beautiful baby boy she adored from the very beginning. She cherished all her grandchildren: Emily, Lucy, Brody, Maddy, Maelle, and Max. Judy also shared a special relationship with her nephew Tyler, who spent much of his early life with her and Jason. She was a second mom to him, offering hugs, guidance, and the occasional well-timed push when needed. She loved his wife, Heather, and their children, Jake and Daniel, deeply. Judy's life held both joys and challenges. She will not be remembered for the hardships but will be remembered for her warmth, her acceptance, and the unconditional love she offered so freely. She had a way of transcending the bounds of conventional relationships, connecting with people on a spiritual level that needed no words. She formed deep, heart-to-heart bonds with her caregivers, who felt her love just as strongly as she felt theirs. Judy was predeceased by her parents, Anne and Alex, her brother John, and her nephew Trevor. She is survived by those mentioned above, as well as her brother Bill, his wife Sandy, their children and grandchildren, her sister-in-law Eileen; and more family connected by blood, marriage, or choice. Judy will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives were touched by her kindness and whose souls connected with her heart. A CELEBRATION OF LIFE will be held on January 17th at 1pm at the Superior Inn.

Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com