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JUDITH GETIS Obituary
June 29, 1938-July 14, 2010
Judy Getis passed away July 14, 2010, aged 72. She was born Judith Miller Marckwardt in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She attended Radcliffe College (now Harvard), the University of Michigan, the University of Washington, and received a Master's degree in geography from Michigan State University. She met Arthur Getis at the University of Washington and they were married in Ann Arbor on July 23, 1961.
Art and Judy lived in East Lansing, Michigan; Princeton, New Jersey; Urbana, Illinois; and San Diego, California. She was a highly respected author, having co-written the most widely-used college textbook in geography as well as numerous books on geographic and environmental issues. A few weeks ago, she put the finishing touches on the 13th edition of their acclaimed textbook.
Judy traveled to more than 70 countries across the globe. She rode camels, rafted rampaging rivers, and parasailed. Judy was a board member of the Friends of the Tierrasanta Library and was active in several book, bridge, and tennis groups. She loved to garden, play recorder, and read, but the joy of her life was to spend time with her family, who miss her deeply.
She is survived by Art, her husband of 49 years; her sister, Elizabeth Oliver; her daughters Hilary, Victoria, and Anne; sons-in-law Jamal, Kevin, and Tony; grandchildren Sophia and Christina Tarazi, Abigail and Hannah Boyle, and Darby, Trevor, and Matthew Tibbetts.
A memorial service will be arranged at a later date. Donations in lieu of flowers to KPBS.
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Memories and Condolences
for JUDITH GETIS
Peter Muller
July 26, 2010
Nancy and I are deeply saddened to learn of Judy's passing. She always treated us kindly in the early days at Rutgers in the 60s, and remained a good friend ever since. Our heartfelt condolences to Art, their daughters, and the rest of the Getis family.
Janet Bumgarner
July 25, 2010
Our family sends your family our deepest sympathy.
-- Janet McCarroll Bumgarner, Aptos, CA
Breandan O hUallachain
July 20, 2010
Judy was a terrific lady. Sincerest sympathies to Art and her family.
Roberta King
July 20, 2010
We met Art & Judy at the Father's Day Pancake breakfast several years ago. The subject of bridge came up and in the fall they joined the Tierrasanta bridge group. It was there I had the opportunity to get to know Judy. She enjoyed life - her family, friends and their adventures. My condolences to Art and all of the family in the loss of a lovely lady.
July 20, 2010
Thinking of the Getis family and extending sincere sympathy for your loss. Judy was a member of our book group and always had an interesting perspective of the books we discussed. We'll miss her wonderful insight and presence. Please accept my condolences. JoAnn Samuelson
Department of Geography
July 20, 2010
Our deepest condolences to Professor Getis and family.
Louis Spitzen
July 19, 2010
Our hearts go out to each member of your family. We're very sorry for your loss. Louis always enjoyed working with Judy and Art. He thought she might have a few more years to share with you. She was very engaged in her projects, even finding the right paint in the garage recently. She cherished the view though their new window. Louis felt the joy in her life. We know the warmth of her love will remain with you always. Heartfelt condolences from the Louis Spitzen Family.
Lauren Scott
July 19, 2010
I'm soooo sorry. My deepest sympathies.
Laura Makey
July 19, 2010
So sorry to hear of Judy's passing. I hope you can find solace in each other and your memories of her.
Lyn Kagey
July 19, 2010
Dear Getis family members,
Judy was a valued member of Cabrillo-Diego AAUW for many years. We will miss her humor and keen insights. We share in the loss of your dear Judy and will treasure her memory.
Please accept our sincere condolences,
Lyn Kagey for Cabrillo Diego AAUW
Don and Janet Longacre
July 19, 2010
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
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