Judith Ann Benesch

Judith Ann Benesch, born Judith Ann Gerber on January 3, 1951, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully at her home in Fridley, Minnesota, on June 6, 2025. She was a beacon of love and kindness, known for her selflessness and unyielding ability to put the needs of others before her own.

She cherished her role as a wife and mother, embracing her family with an open heart and standing proud in her commitment to loving them fiercely. Judith is survived by her loving husband, Harold Benesch, her daughters Brenda Haller and Nancy Bergdahl, and her son Joseph Benesch. She took great joy in her grandchildren: Jordan Haller, Isabella Haller, Charlie Haller, Natalie Melcher, Abigail Bergdahl, Dewey Bergdahl, Maya Benesch, and Riley Benesch. Judith also leaves behind her beloved sisters, Nancy Fluth, Barb Sanvig, and Robin Tieden.

She joins in eternal rest with her mother Shirley Stieg, father Earl James Gerber, stepfather Edward Stieg, stepfather Robert Flaws, and her son-in-law Joey Bergdahl. Their memories live on through the lives and hearts of all who loved her.

Judith’s spirit was as warm as her hugs, which were deep and meaningful, providing comfort and solace to anyone lucky enough to receive them. Her profound care for others and her angelic ability to make everyone feel valued enriched the lives of many throughout her journey. Judith didn’t just touch lives; she transformed them with her unwavering love and attention.

Her love for cooking was one of the primary ways she expressed how much she cared. Each meal was a labor of love, cooked with the intent to nourish both the body and soul of her family and friends. Judith’s greatest accomplishments lie not in accolades, but in the relationships she nurtured and the love she spread. She was unmatched in her capacity to bring people together, often inviting those in need of companionship to her holiday celebrations, reinforcing her belief that no one should feel alone during life’s special moments.

In her passing, she leaves behind a legacy of genuine love and compassion. A visitation will be held in her honor on June 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Thurston Deshaw Funeral Homes, located at 13817 Jay St NW, Andover, MN 55304. A graveside service will take place later that day at Otsego Cemetery, starting at 1:30 PM, with a final farewell to conclude at 1:45 PM.

Judith Ann Benesch will be greatly missed, not just as a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend, but as a true embodiment of generosity and love that knows no bounds. Her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her, reminding us of the importance of embracing others with warmth, kindness, and a delicious home-cooked meal.