Maureen Judisch DeVries

Maureen LaVerne (Valstad) Judisch DeVries passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at the Logan Extended Care Facility in Conrad.
Services will be held Monday, February 14, 2022.  Visitation at 10:00 AM, Service 11:00 AM, at Pondera Valley Lutheran Church, 518 So. Delaware in Conrad, with 1:30 PM burial in Hillside Cemetery. A Luncheon will be served immediately following the service in the church Fellowship Hall before the procession to the cemetery.
Born August 1, 1936, Maureen, nicknamed “Reenie”, grew up on a farm east of Conrad surrounded by prairie, grain fields and the Rocky Mountain sunsets to the west. She attended Central country school east of Ledger through the 8th grade and graduated from Conrad High School in 1954. As a young girl, she enjoyed family camping trips in the mountains and giggle-filled summer camp with girlfriends. She reflected fondly about life in her close-knit farming community full of caring neighbors, picnics, dances, and other social events. After graduation, she and her family spent the summer in Norway, an unforgettable experience, enjoying time with her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Once back in the USA, she moved to Seattle to continue her education. She earned a Dental Assistant certificate before returning to Conrad where she worked as an assistant to Dr. Yunck.
In 1957, Maureen married Clark A. Judisch. Together they farmed and ranched east of Ledger. They had 5 children. At the time of Clark’s untimely passing from cancer in 1971, the children transitioned from rural to town school. The family began living in Conrad during the school months, returning to the farm for the summer. As her kids reminisce, the best of both worlds comes to mind. They were blessed to have had their upbringing and are forever grateful for the remarkable job their mom did raising them without Dad by her side all of those years. She made sure to keep memories of him vivid and alive in their minds—the best gift. Maureen instilled important values in her children and was their biggest advocate. Many special times were had, including trips across the mountains to grandparent’s place in Happy Valley, and drives to the ranch “up west” for picnics, lake fishing, and the much-anticipated hunt for the perfect Christmas tree. Maureen adored babies, whether two-legged or four, and absolutely gushed over them. Her flower beds and large vegetable garden, from which she produced amazing meals for the harvest crews, brought her much satisfaction. She held her Norwegian roots near and dear to her heart, and often baked and shared traditional Norwegian goodies when special occasions arose. She always kept a coffee pot brewing, and enjoyed having visitors drop by, ready to extend a warm welcome to all.
In 1986, Maureen married Robert DeVries. With Rob, she welcomed extended families into the fold, and hosted frequent gatherings while enjoying life on the DeVries farm. She cherished the travels they took throughout the upper Midwest to visit her daughters and view the changing fall foliage, her favorite time of the year.
Maureen belonged to the PondeToole Extension Homemaker’s Club, was a lifelong member of Pondera Valley Lutheran, serving her church in many capacities, and was an avid supporter in her children’s school, church and 4-H activities. Those who knew her, admired her sweet disposition and positive attitude that was second to none. She was a caretaker at heart and willing to extend a helping hand to those in need. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.
Maureen was preceded in death by husband, Clark Judisch; her second husband, Robert DeVries; her parents, Emil and Signora (Eide) Valstad; brother, Byrl; in-laws, Bill and Joey (Leys) Judisch; as well as many other family members and dear friends.
She is survived by 5 children, 12 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, Kathryn and Kirk Gallup (Geoff, Laura); Kenneth and Lisa Judisch (Tyler, Amanda); Kristi and Kelly Franz (Kameron, Korey, Kassidy); Kip Judisch (Clark, Clint, Cye); Jack and Barb Judisch (Kailey, Krista). She is also survived by Robert’s family, Nancy and Tim Shumway (Jaron, Kipp, Kevin); Linda and Craig Engebretson (Eric, Kaare); Marvin and Leslie DeVries; Dean DeVries (Deena, Myles); James and Patty DeVries (Riley, Mary, Ethan); and 9 great grandchildren.
Thank you to the staff at Logan Extended Care Facility for the excellent care and compassion given to Mom throughout her stay. You truly are a blessing to the community.
Memorials may be given to Pondera Valley Lutheran Church, PO Box 883, Conrad MT, 59425, or Logan Health Care-Conrad, 805 Sunset Blvd, Conrad. In the memo, please write “lockers for Extended Healthcare staff.”