Judy Salo

1948 - 2025

Judith "Judy" Elinor Salo passed away on August 24, 2025 with her daughter and granddaughter by her side.

Born in Hibbing in 1948 and raised in Tower, Judy was a proud Iron Ranger. Her work ethic and creative energy appeared early; she learned to clean cabins at the Stoddard Lodge at the age of 14. She became a majorette at TS High, twirling a mean baton.

Her adventure of a lifetime began when she married Robb Salo of Embarrass in August of 1965 and moved to Nome, Alaska for Robb's first teaching and coaching job. Their daughter, Holly, was born in Nome, and the family returned to Minnesota. While Robb taught at Clover Valley High School, Judy began her studies at UMD-often attending classes during Holly's nap times.

In 1969, the lure of new opportunities brought the Salos back to Alaska, this time settling in Kenai. Robb and Judy loved hosting their parents, siblings, cousins and friends, taking them fishing for salmon on the Kenai River.

Judy obtained both her bachelor's and master's degrees in elementary education from the University of Alaska. Teaching 5th grade for more than 20 years on the Kenai Peninsula, Judy's commitment to children and families extended beyond the classroom. Following in the path of her dad Paul Palo, Judy was very involved in her union, the National Education Association. She won many awards for leadership and was a local and state president as well as regional director.

In 1990, Judy was appointed to the Alaska State House of Representatives, and in 1992, she was elected to the Alaska State Senate. Her greatest accomplishments included what she referred to as 'The Baby Bill', guaranteeing that insurance companies cover the cost of new mothers spending two nights in the hospital instead of just one. Judy's passion for education and health led her to work for the Alaska Department of Education as well as serving on the South Peninsula Hospital board. She was a staunch Democrat and she loved having attended several presidential inaugurations. Integrity and character were very important to her.

Judy was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Palm Desert where she sang in the choir. It was easy to spot Judy in any room because of her tall, fashionable, Arctic blonde presence. Her hobbies included travel, golf, shopping at consignment and thrift stores (often with Holly), reading voraciously, and hosting or attending a good Happy Hour. Her wisdom, leadership, humor, and love for family and friends will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Holly and Bob Adkins, two grandchildren Elle and Ryan Adkins, her brother Gerry Palo (Sandy) as well as her brother-in-law Doug Salo (Nancy), seven nieces (Teri, Kim, Jodi, Michelle, Stacy, Missy, Lexi), one nephew (Travis), five Norberg cousins (Barbara, Lois, Eric, Shirley, Patti) and so many friends. Judy was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Elinor Palo, her brother-in-law Michael Salo, her beloved husband Robert Salo and his parents Eino and Lillian, and most recently, her 14 year old chocolate lab, Riley.

A luncheon (12:30) and church service (2:00) will be held on Friday, November 7 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Tower. A private burial will be held at Lakeview Cemetery.