Mikkelsen, Judith Jeanne (Bonker) 1944 - 2016

MIKKELSEN, BONKER, DOTSETH, HODSON, WALKER

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 10/7/2016 at 15:38:21

Judith Mikkelsen died Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2016, at her home surrounded by family. A memorial service is Monday, Oct. 10, at 11 a.m., at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Decorah, with Pastor Amy Larson presiding. Friends may call prior to the service beginning at 9 a.m.

Judith Jeanne Bonker was born Dec. 29, 1944, in Des Moines, to Helen Jeanne and Earl Bonker. She attended schools in Linden, Waukee and Dike, graduating from Dike High School in 1963. Judy attended the College of Medical Technology in Minneapolis, Minn., and worked in the quality control lab at Schweigert Meat company following completion of the 18-month course. She was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Clark Lee Mikkelsen, Nov. 28, 1964, in Dike. Daughter Lisa Lorine was born June 15, 1967. Following Clark’s graduation from Augsburg College the family moved to Cedar Falls, where Clark began his long career with State Farm Insurance; Judy assisted as his secretary. She also worked in retail on and off through the years. Son David Eric Mikkelsen was born April 23, 1977, and the family resided happily in Decorah. Judy and Clark traveled the world by land and by sea, enjoying many cruises over their 46-year marriage, although she considered herself more of a “homebody” and took great joy in family and domestic “duties.” Judy was a 27-year survivor of stage-4 breast cancer until being diagnosed with metastatic disease in the spring of 2015. She considered herself blessed with those years to watch her children grow, marry and have families of their own – resulting in five grandchildren to cherish and enjoy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband in 2010. She is survived by daughter Lisa (Dotseth) and husband Kevin of Johnston, son David and wife Michele of Waukon, grandchildren Hayley and Drew Dotseth, and Alaina, Cara and Hayden Clark Mikkelsen. One sister survives, Dixie (and Harold) Hodson of Ankeny, a sister-in-law LeAnn (and Mike) Walker of Waverly, as well as beloved nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

She was blessed with many friends and neighbors who meant so much to her, and a church family she loved. She found great joy in the simple things in life and cherished each and every priceless memory.

Source: Decorah Newspapers Oct. 7, 2016