JUDY YVONNE BIRKENES of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Victor Lloyd Birkenes, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2010 at the age of 69 years.

Judy was born in Travers, Alberta in January 1941, the third child of Glen and Ethel Root. Judy and her family moved to the Lomond area in the spring of 1948. Ten years later Judy married Vic Birkenes, and together they farmed and were active members in the community for more than 45 years. Not only did she raise three children while working alongside Vic on the farm, she drove school bus and later enjoyed working at the Lomond Savings and Credit Union, retiring to Lethbridge in 2005. Judy had a passion for sports, especially when her children and grandkids were involved, and she spent countless hours in rinks, arenas and ball diamonds,

Judy is survived by her two daughters, Teresa (Adrian) and Jody (Scott); grandchildren, Landon (Joanne), Erin and Tessa; brother Leon (Charlotte) Root, sisters, Lois (Lyle) Sunde and Glenda Snopek; brothers-in-law, Len (Esther) Birkenes and Robert (Del) Birkenes; sister-in-law Maude Birkenes, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

Judy was predeceased by her husband Vic, son Wayne and brother Dale.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 5, 2010 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4th Street South, Lethbridge, with Pastor Brian Magee, officiating.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish may make memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 207 542 7th Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2H1.