Judith Anne Michaelis, affectionately known as Judy to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025, in Mundelein, IL, after a brave journey with Alzheimer's disease. Born on January 10, 1943, in Elgin, IL, to the late Rose and Joe Pokorny, Judy's life was marked by her infectious smile, warm laughter, and the love she poured into her family and community. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Gene Michaelis.

 

Judy's early years were spent in the embrace of a large and lively family, and she shared her childhood with her beloved siblings, including her surviving sisters, Sister Mary Pokorny OP and Clara (Erv) Reisner. She was preceded in death by siblings Charlie (Gingie) Pokorny, Rosemary (William) McGraw, Margaret (Jack) Aldrich, Fritz (Patricia) Pokorny, Joe Pokorny, Francis (Virgene) Pokorny, George Pokorny, and Edward Pokorny. She also leaves behind two cherished sisters-in-law, Judy Pokorny and Diane Pokorny, as well as countless nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

 

Judy and Gene raised a loving family. Their children include Michelle Christensen, Mark Michaelis, Rose Janowitz, Andy (Eileen) Michaelis, Kristie (Brad) Schuller, and Laura Batzer. Judy's role as a mother was one she cherished deeply. Judy's legacy includes 18 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who were the absolute highlight of her life. She was preceded in death by one of her beloved grandchildren, Josh Batzer, who remains forever cherished in our hearts. Her role as a grandmother brought her immeasurable joy, and her influence will continue through the generations.

 

After graduating from beauty school, Judy's career began in a salon in Crystal Lake, where a fateful encounter with Gene would lead to 48 years of marriage. With a growing family, Judy established a makeshift salon in her kitchen. Often, you could catch her giving a perm or haircut to any number of friends, family, and neighbors. Her career later transitioned to over 25 years of service with American Greetings, where her creativity and dedication shone through.

 

Judy's commitment to faith and community was evident in her involvement with Saints Peter & Paul Church, where she and Gene were active parishioners. They contributed their time and energy to events like pancake breakfasts and fundraisers, strengthening the bonds of their community. Their entrepreneurial spirit led them to open The Lantern Inn in Fox River Grove, and Judy's love for cooking was further shared through successful stints running kitchens, including the much-loved Friday Night Fish Fry at the Cary Pub and the Union VFW.

 

Her interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. Judy enjoyed playing cards, doing puzzles, baking, tending to her garden, and spending precious moments with friends and family. She was renowned for her handcrafted rosaries, knitted afghans, and intricately counted cross-stitched quilts, which she lovingly made for her grandchildren until she was no longer able. These tokens of her affection are cherished reminders of her talent and generosity.

 

Diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2013, Judy faced her illness with grace and strength. During her time in Memory Care centers, she never lost her ability to connect with others, making new friends among residents and staff alike, and continuing to spread her trademark kindness.

 

Judy's life was a testament to the power of a positive spirit and the importance of community. Her unwavering faith, commitment to her loved ones, and capacity for spreading joy will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Judy's life was not defined by its conclusion but by the profound impact she had on those around her—a beacon of love, faith, and kindness.

 

We celebrate Judy's life and the immeasurable ways she enriched ours. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories we share and the love we continue to give, just as she did so freely throughout her remarkable life.

 

Visitation will be held at Kahle-Moore Funeral Home, Cary, IL, on Friday, February 14th, from 4pm to 8pm. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, February 15th, at 10:30am at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Cary, IL, followed by interment at Saint John Nepomucene Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association.