Judith Kay Nielsen

Judith "Judy" Kay Nielsen, age 83, passed away on Sunday, December 7th, 2025, at Aspirus Hospice House, surrounded by warmth and love.

Judy was the last daughter born to Paul and Esther Zastrow on July 19th, 1942. Through dear friends, Judy met the love of her life, Russell Nielsen. They were joined in marriage on February 11th, 1961, at Zion Lutheran Church. They were blessed to celebrate 64 years of marriage together.

From a young age on, Judy was very devoted to her faith and family. She could often be found volunteering at Bible study, assisting with Sunday school, helping with the annual church rummage sale, as well as volunteering at local nursing homes, offering love and companionship to those in need. She truly was a tender soul.

Judy loved to sing and dance. Her favorite song to sing to her grandchildren was "Jesus Loves Me." Judy carried a natural talent for song and took pride in participating in church choir, occasionally offering a solo lead.

Judy's joys in life included traveling the country with Russ, attending local musicals, gathering with family and friends for card nights, indulging in the words of various autobiographers, and, of course, attending stock-car races where she would often be found cheering on her son, Jim.

Judy is survived by her loving husband, Russell Nielsen; her daughters, Kathy (Rick Mellon), Tracy (Keith) Cortright; her son, Jim (Heather) Nielsen; her brother-in-law, Kenneth Nielsen; and sister-in-law, Nancy Prigge. Additionally, she was blessed to have 8 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she loved dearly.

Preceding her in death are her parents, Paul and Esther Zastrow (Marquardt); her sister, Delores (Laurie) Leck; sister, Elaine Hoff; brother, Al Zastrow; sister-in-law, Mary Anne Nielsen; and brother-in-law, Ken Prigge.

A special thanks to her team of health care providers at Marshfield Clinic, the Aspirus Oncology team, as well as Aspirus Hospice House, for your compassion and strength during this difficult time.

Judy's loving smile and gentle soul will forever remain in our hearts.

A private service will be held on December 18, 2025.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements. You may sign the family guestbook at www.ascendweston.org.