Judith Fern Miller Sondrol passed away peacefully on Friday, September 27th surrounded by family. She was born on January 15, 1938 on the farm in Thompson, North Dakota. Judy was the 3rd child of 14, born to Adeline and Walter Miller. She and her sisters Marilyn and Darlyne moved to Grand Forks when she was 14, where she worked as a grocery store clerk and sent money home to help support the family.
Judy met the love of her life, LeRoy Sondrol at the roller rink in Reynolds. Judy claims LeRoy never proposed – they just told Adeline and Walter they were getting married. They were married at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church on August 18, 1957 and moved to Grand Forks where they were blessed with 3 children: Randy, Mark and Kristi. The Miller siblings produced more than 40 cousins and the extended family loved their times growing up together at the Miller Farm, Wood Lake and Maple Lake cabins.
Judy and LeRoy spent the next 67 years living, working and contributing to the Grand Forks community. A silent servant, Judy was always behind the scenes supporting and encouraging others, as well as serving, particularly through her work at Calvary Lutheran Church. She was well known for always having a cookie or baked treat ready for anyone who stopped by for a visit. As a dedicated Sioux fan, UND and its teams always held a special place in Judy’s heart.
Judy is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Adeline, siblings Robert Miller, David Miller, Marilyn Sorbo, Jeannette Larson, Dennis Miller, Deborah Osowski, Maxine Olson and Gary Miller. She is survived by siblings Darlyne Hegg, Richard Miller, Sharon Fortin, Cindy Duppong and Becky Bohlman; children Randy (Lora) Sondrol, Mark Sondrol, Kristi (Steve) Colby and the 7 grandchildren that were her pride and joy: Kate Sondrol, Zack Sondrol, Matt Sondrol, Trevor (Jess) Sondrol, Peter Colby, Andrew Colby and David Colby. Judy followed her grandchildren with a passion; theatre, robotics and lots of hockey. She visited frequently and LeRoy always knew when it was time to head to California or the cities for a “grandchild fix.”
Judy loved her family and loved her Lord. She loved each member of her large extended family through many highs and lows, and in her final days, she reminded them to keep their togetherness. She was a beacon of strength and resilience. Her stubborn will was truly a force to be reckoned with. She is feasting in heaven and as she told everyone who visited her in her final days; “I’ll be waiting for all of you there.” God Speed, Judy – Well done, good and faithful servant!
Judy’s service was held on Saturday, October 5th at Calvary Lutheran Church at noon.