Judith L. Ertel

Judith Lillian Ertel passed away on September 1, under the love and embrace of her family and the care team at The Cottages at Unity.

Judy was born on June 18, 1940 in Rhode Island to James and Jean Patterson. She was brought up by loving parents with extended family in the area. Judy's early years and school life included a lot of travel in support of her father's pursuit of employment. She attended a total of 11 different schools between kindergarten and high school graduation. Her father was a skilled machinist and master "tinkerer", her mother Jean was a kind soul who embraced life. Judy and her sister Susan enjoyed many adventures on the Jersey Shore and were masters of mischief and Yahtzee.

Judy is survived by her loving husband of 64 years Stan, and their two sons, Scott (Jenny) and Greg (Lisa). She has 4 Grandchildren, Sara (Matt), Chris (Brenda), Trevor (Sarah) and Aaron (Carly) and 2 Great Grandchildren (Avery and Robin). Judy and Stan met at Lock Haven University in Central Pennsylvania and continued the family tradition of traveling in their early years. Scott was born soon after their college graduation and marriage in Pennsylvania. Greg was born a few years later in College Station TX, while Stan pursued higher education and Judy worked to support the family. They relocated to Rochester, NY to join Judy's parents and began their long careers as science teachers. Judy was a hard-working, intelligent and resourceful mother and teacher. She loved her family and was always striving to help others - including her family, students, parents and anyone in need.

Judy taught middle school science with a focus and flair for hands-on learning. She taught in Greece and worked at many schools, including Britton Road, Athena, Apollo and finally Arcadia.

Judy was involved in many hobbies and volunteer activities throughout her life including a passion for sewing, knitting and jewelry. She used her crafting skills and interest in women's rights to make historically accurate miniature dolls for the Susan B. Anthony house. Judy also supported many other organizations including the library, Greece Food shelf and Clothing Closet. Judy and Stan were active and engaged parents that led to many family adventures including a canal tour on the Great Lakes and Canada on a small wood Cabin Cruiser boat with an outboard motor. The ever-resourceful Judy made sure there they were well fed - there can never be too many egg sandwiches. The family also had several trips across the Western United States on a truck camper. Judy and Stan were hardy souls that did not require a lot of luxury but enjoyed showing their sons how to enjoy nature and embrace all that life has to offer. The family lived throughout Greece starting in Northgate Apartments and gradually moving up to Bancroft, Orchid and finally their treasured home on Lake Ontario - only a stones throw from Schaller's. (Judy was not afraid to "borrow" some of Schaller's trays for extended home use, they gave them plenty of business so it is fitting). Judy and the entire family were all avid bikers and skiers. Judy and Stan biked in nearly all 50 States and Holland and Ireland as well. Judy enjoyed her skiing and even after an early injury kept at it and used her teaching skills to chaperone Junior High Ski club. Judy and Stan maintained their interest in skiing and biking and enjoyed many great adventures across the Country into their later years.

Judy lived a full and meaningful life, bringing joy, knowledge and a love of science to many. A remembrance and celebration of her life will be held 4:00pm - 6:00pm, Wednesday September 10, 2025 at the Newcomer Cremations & Funerals on 2636 Ridgeway Avenue.

In lieu of flowers donations to the Greece Ecumenical Food Shelf & Clothing Closet (https://www.facebook.com/greecefoodshelf/) and the Susan B. Anthony House and foundation (https://susanb.org/)

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