Judith Papesh

Judith “Judy” (Plambeck) Papesh of Des Moines, formerly of Tipton and Waterloo, died peacefully on April 19, 2017, due to complications resulting from Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) and Alzheimer’s disease.

Judy was born on November 22, 1945, in Davenport, Iowa, triplet daughter of Allen and Gladys (Sievers) Plambeck. She graduated from North Scott High School, Eldridge, in 1964, and the University of Northern Iowa in 1968, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education. She married Alfred Papesh, Jr. on August 3, 1968.

Judy taught art in Denver, Long Grove, and at St. Edward’s School in Waterloo. In later years, she was employed by Community State Bank and Tipton Greenhouse in Tipton. She was an active member of the Dickeyville Mother’s Club and Tri-Sigma.

Judy was a talented artist and a Master Gardener. She enjoyed crafts and decorating, and had a collection of over 140 Santa’s. Most of all, she loved getting together with family for holidays and special occasions. Judy will be remembered by those who knew her for always having a smile on her face and for seeing the good in everything.

Judy is survived by her husband, Al; children, Jennifer (Erik) Goode of Waukee, and Adam (Melissa) Papesh of Ames; 4 grandchildren: Jacob Papesh, Emma Goode, Allison Goode, and Seth Papesh; brothers, James (Sally) Plambeck of Davenport, and John (Judy) Plambeck of Madison, WI, brother-in-law, Claude (Deb) Papesh of Newhall, sister-in-law, Sharon Duchacek of Clutier; many nieces and nephews; and Bruno the dog. She is preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Joyce Plambeck.

A private viewing was held on Friday, April 21, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home in Des Moines. Memorial donations can be made to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (www.theaftd.org).

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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