Judith May Caruso

Judith "Judy" May Caruso, 82, of Bradenton, FL, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025.
Judy was born on April 23, 1943, in Greendale, WI, to the late Catherine and Julius Bognar. A proud graduate of Greendale High School and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, she earned her degree in education and went on to teach kindergarten at Willow Glen Elementary School. It was there she met her future husband, Peter Caruso, while teaching his nephew. A serendipitous connection that began a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and devotion. She and Peter were married for 57 years. After retiring and moving to Florida in 2005, they started a new adventure traveling to fairs, where they ran a small business selling gifts and jewelry. Judy was always proudly wearing her 'Hip Klip'. This venture became a shared passion, as they forged countless friendships along the way.
She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, and her favorite title "Grama Veggie", whose gentle spirit and thoughtful heart touched everyone she met. Judy believed deeply in the importance of healthy living and could often be found creating her famous healthy "shakes," or sharing her love of organic food with family and friends. Her happiest days were spent on Lido Beach in Sarasota soaking up the sunshine and the beauty of the Gulf. Judy was awarded numerous awards for teaching excellence, and she poured this love of teaching into her grandchildren.
Judy is survived by her beloved husband Peter; her son Bryan and his wife Stefani; cherished grandchildren Wren and Bear; and her sister Cheryl Bognar.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Julie; her sister, Darlene; and her brothers, David and Ron.
A memorial service will be held at Nativity of the Lord Catholic Church (3672 E Plankinton Ave, Cudahy, WI 53110) on Friday, November 14, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by mass at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor Judy's memory with an act of self-care - make a healthy 'shake,' explore a local farmer's market, or simply find joy soaking up the sunshine in your favorite spot.