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Judith Steinke Obituary
1942-2026
Sandy, UT-Judith Elaine Steinke (nee Stilovich) left this world on February 6, 2026, at the age of 83 following a short but unrecoverable medical event. Judy joins her beloved Bruce almost a year to the day since she lost him. Family and friends are comforted knowing that the two of them are together again.
Judy was born at LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, and was a graduate of South High School. She retired from a life-long career with the phone company, choosing challenging and pioneering roles that opened opportunities for women. Following her retirement, she and Bruce transitioned a hobby into a full-scale business, launching BJ Miniatures. Judy and Bruce worked side by side for three decades designing quarter-scale miniature kits; specializing in creating tiny quality furniture to fill them; and delighting the miniature enthusiast community with classes, parties, and whimsical costumes.
Judy loved love, and the light of her life was her family. She struggled early on to find her life-long partner. That struggle ended when she married her soul mate Bruce, living the second half of her life happy and secure with unconditional love. Judy glowed whenever she was surrounded by the chaos of another family day, which often included pulling out calendars to schedule movie dates with the grandkids, the next few cabin trips, or fun vacations. She enjoyed travel with family and friends, preferring suites over tents, but occasionally tolerating the latter for a special adventure.
Judy is survived by her two daughters Julie Hammond Kilgore (Ron) and Cheryl Hammond Williams; five grandchildren Justin Kilgore (Tess), Jamie Nolan (Sean), Tanner Williams (Hannah Scout), Paige Williams, and Zachary Williams; and three great grandchildren Brodie Williams, Andrew Nolan and Jaxon Kilgore, who delighted her every moment she had them in her presence.
A celebration of Judy's life will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 12:00-1:30 PM at the LeJardin greenhouse (1910 E. Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, Utah 84092). Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the remarkable life she lived.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Judith Steinke
Sponsored by Larkin Mortuary - Salt Lake City.
3 Entries
Ralph Arnold
February 16, 2026
Julie, Cheryl and families, My deepest sympathy for the loss of your mom. I worked for Judy at US West for several years until her retirement. She was one of the kindest people I worked with and easily the best boss I ever had. She made it some of the happiest times in my career. Thinking about her now, I can hear her laugh when she told me "You're late" and I would say "No, I always start at 7:10." Seeing her and Bruce together pursuing their passion with miniatures seemed like the perfect retirement. I am thankful that I got to know them both.
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Valene
February 15, 2026
I worked and carpooled with Judy. What a great lady. Oh the stories I could tell. RIP Judy.
Marianne L. Madrigal
February 12, 2026
I worked at the phone company with Judy. I remember her working on her miniature furniture. On our breaks and lunch she would pull out her magnifying glass for she could sew on the seat covers for her miniature chairs. It was fascinating to watch her. She was a jolly person and I enjoyed our friendship. Love and condolences to her family.
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