Judith Ann Leake

Judith was born on March 25, 1939, in Kankakee Illinois, to Harvey E. and Jeanette (Bregenzer) Patnaude, she grew up in a nurturing environment, and she fondly remembered the special moments spent with her father, bonding over fishing and hunting adventures such as squirrels and morel mushrooms. Her cherished cat, Chico, was known throughout the city for his unique talent for retrieving birds, an endearing testament to Judith's lively spirit and love for animals.

After completing her education and graduating as the class Salutatorian of 1957 at St. Joseph Seminary High School in Kankakee. Judith embarked on a career in banking, during which she met her future husband, Arthur M. Leake. They were united in marriage on April 16, 1966, in a ceremony that celebrated love and commitment. The couple enjoyed a honeymoon filled with adventure at Niagara Falls, followed by a memorable hunting trip where they pursued antelope together.

Judith's life was marked by her passion for sports, especially her unwavering support for the Chicago Black Hawks Hockey Team, for which she held season tickets. Alongside her enthusiasm for sports, she dedicated countless hours as a 4H leader, a role that brought her immense joy. On the cattle ranch, she worked alongside Arthur, contributing to the planting of large vegetable gardens each year, from which she skillfully canned their harvest. Judith and Arthur generously shared their bountiful produce with friends and loved ones. She also enjoyed reading and listening to the old time radio shows.

Her commitment to community service was evident throughout her life. Judith volunteered with Meals On Wheels and was actively involved in her church, embodying the spirit of giving and compassion. She also had a brief stint as a legal secretary for David Ashbaugh, showcasing her diverse talents and strong work ethic.

Judith is survived by her children, Katrina Boyer and her husband Bret, and Randal Leake and his wife Marla. She was a proud grandmother to Amber Green and her husband Rigoberto Jacinto Castro, Marrissa Miller, Spencer Miller, and a loving great-grandmother to Alessia Jacinto and Camille Miller.

Judith's legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Jeanette Patnaude, her husband Arthur M. Leake, her grandson, Dylan Leake, daughter-in-law, Teresa Leake, and her brother Charles.