Judy “Jude” Cleary passed away on Friday, April 20, 2012. Judy was born April 30, 1945, to George and Anna Ek in Milwaukee. She attended St. Alberts Elementary School, Dominican High School, and Mount Mary College in Milwaukee. Mike and Judy were married Oct. 29, 1966. They enjoyed 45 years of adventure and a love-filled marriage. Judy wasn’t afraid to try different things. She was an executive secretary at American Motors in Milwaukee, and she ran a dress shop with her good friend Kris Schmitt in Fort Myers, FL, and then in Coloma. She was a restaurant hostess and a cashier at a large chain grocery store on Ft. Myers Beach, FL. She was even a camp cook in a hunting camp in Colorado where Mike was employed as a guide. Mike and Judy were in the hospitality business on three occasions. Some people will remember her from the Bulldog Inn that she owned and operated with her husband in Coloma. After a successful eight years, they sold and went to work at Two Lakes Supper Club in Almond. That is where her smiling face could be seen for over 16 years.
Judy loved and was loved by her customers, friends, and family. She always tried to make people feel important and special. “How are you doing, my friend?” were often the first words you heard when
she saw you. She loved live and all its activities. She enjoyed skiing, fishing, golfing, horseback riding, Sudoku, and soaking up the sun in Florida in the winter time. Her special passion was for her flowers. She called them her girls. Every year her house and garden bloomed with color and beauty. There wasn’t one flower that she didn’t want to bring home.
She is preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her husband: Mike; sister: Mary Flanderka; her favorite brother-in-law: Steve; sister: Sandy Hahm; her other favorite brother-in-law: Roger; and nieces and nephews. She had two very special people in her life, Kelly and Michael Howell, the children of Andy and Lisa Howell. These two kids captured her heart and she loved them dearly.
Judy carried a sense of joy and love for life wherever she went. She would find and share specialness in everyday activities. She will be missed by everyone that knew her.
Judy has requested that memorials be sent to Make A Wish Foundation.
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at Two Lakes Super Club in Almond at noon on Saturday, May 5.
To the family of Judy Cleary,
I am sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that God is “near to those that are broken heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” (Psalm 34;18) With sympathy,
I am so sorry to hear about Judy passing. What a wonderful person she was as well as you guys being such a wonderful couple. We had so many good times with you guys in Big Flats as well as at the Bull Dog. When you went to Two Lakes, we lost contact with you, but we never forgot either of you. May God comfort you Mike.
Mike,
As a Former member of your “Bulldog” team I am truly & deeply sorry to hear of Judy’s passing. It was a pleasure to be part of your team and know that Judy will be sincerely missed by not only myself but many members of the communities you have graced your presence with. May God bless you during this difficult time.
*Hugz*
Paula
So sorry to read about Judy. We still remember the good times, with Jack.
My most sincere thoughts and memories of Judy’s SMILE and concern for everyone.
Mike you must remember the great and good times. At this time Judy has no more
pain and suffering. May God Bless all of your Family & Friends in fond times with
JUDY. Our Love Sharon ‘s Family
Mike, So sorry to hear of your loss. It is never easy for sure.
Mike, We are so sorry to hear of Judy’s passing. We still talk of the good times at Bulldog. Seemed she was always happy.
Mike, I’m so sorry for your loss. Judy was a special lady, and friend. Haven’t seen you two for many years but thought of you guys often.
Mike–So sorry for your loss. I;ll never forget the good food and goods times we had at The Bull Dog.
Mike, i am so deeply sorry for you loss, when i think of Judy, i only think of wonderful and kind things.
Many hugs
Karrie