May 18, 1937 — February 28, 2025
Juliette Stehling, known as Judy, was born Juliette Lucille Klein on May 18, 1937 to Gilbert and Adela Klein, and she left us 87 years later on February 28, 2025.
She was wooed and won by Herb Stehling, and at the age of 19 she and Herb married on May 26, 1956. They were married for 68 years, and their continual devotion to each other was a testament to marriage.
Throughout their long marriage, she partnered with Herb on numerous ventures such as Sandyland Resort and the Bridgepoint, Beaver Island, and Shady Grove subdivisions. Her creativity contributed to beautifully landscaped entrances and valuable insights. Herb valued her as a true partner and relied on her support.
She occasionally engaged in work outside the home, yet she regarded taking care of her house and family as her primary vocation. She spared no effort in ensuring that her family was always presentable and polished. As an accomplished seamstress, she created beautiful and stylish outfits for her daughters, Sherrie, Diane, and Becky, to wear to school, church and proms. Beyond her sewing skills, she was also proficient in painting, playing the guitar and mandolin, creating stunning flower arrangements, and excelling in landscaping.
After their honeymoon in Colorado, Herb and Judy dreamed of spending more time there. Using salvaged materials from Haywood Christian Camp (where Bridgepoint is now located), Herb and Judy, along with their grown children, spent several years building a home in Cuchara. This residence serves as a family retreat where many cherished memories have been created.
In her later years, her grandchildren and her great grandchildren were her greatest joy in life. Her devotion to them was strong, and she was dearly loved. Even during her most challenging times, a visit by one of her “kids” was met with eager anticipation and a joyful smile. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren could do no wrong with her; she loved them without reservation. She embraced her role as “Gran” with boundless love and pride.
Judy led a happy life despite many challenges. She remained hopeful and positive through her struggles, showing faith and supporting Herb in guiding their family. Her family and friends will dearly miss her.
Judy was preceded in death by her sisters, Emma Sucula and Evelyn Fiedler; and her brothers, Gilbert Klein, Jr, Richard Klein, Alton Klein and Herbert Klein. In addition to her husband Herb, Judy is survived by her brother Curtis Klein and wife Barbara; her brother Roland Klein and wife Suzie; and her four children, Sherrie Virdell (Mark), Diane Gallatin (Charles), Becky Wise (Jack), and Bryan Stehling (Cheryl Ann); her 10 grandchildren and her 12 great grandchildren.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday March 6th at 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
Graveside services and interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Rosary services will be held on Wednesday March 5th at 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Schaetter Funeral Home.
Visitation for Judy Stehling will be held on Wednesday March 5th from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Schaetter Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, St. Mary’s Capital Campaign, St. John’s Catholic Church, or to the Charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of the Schaetter Funeral Home Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.schaetter. com
