Traverse City Record-Eagle

Archive: Friday

January 18, 2013

Judine F. Leavitt

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TRAVERSE CITY — Judine F. Leavitt, 66, of Traverse City, passed away after a battle with cancer Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. Judine was born on April 23, 1946, to Royal and Angeline (Armbrust) Lackey in Newberry.

She used her degree in education from Northern Michigan University teaching the children of U.S. military personnel in the Philippines, Germany and Italy. Judine enjoyed the teaching as well as the chance to see so many places. She even took an interest in scuba diving taking her first lesson off the deck of a destroyer.

Judine earned her master's degree in education and used her knowledge and talents as a private tutor in Traverse City. She was extremely caring and compassionate and was an advocate for many at-risk children. Judine had a passion for children and often worked in their favor with Friend of the Court or speaking to educate many about fetal alcohol syndrome. Judine was always giving of her talents but more often her time and herself, volunteering where she could, including Father Fred and St. Vincent DePaul or providing respite care for other parents.

Judine was a faithful and active part of the parish at Christ the King Catholic Church in Acme. She will be remembered for her passion, drive and ability to put others first.

Judine is survived by her children, Raymond (Cecilia) Leavitt, of Traverse City, and Rita (Donald) Erickson, of Grawn; her mother, Angeline, of Marquette; her sister; Rose (Steve) Gerlach, of Saline; three brothers, Robert (Mary Jo) Lackey, of Marquette, Gerald (Nancy) Lackey, of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Ronald (Deborah) Lackey, of Gaylord; one sister-in-law, Carol Lackey; four grandchildren, Anna Marie, Pearl and Henry, with grandson, Raymond expected very soon; as well as many other loving family members and friends.

Judine was preceded in death by her father, Royal F. Lackey; and one brother, William Lackey.

A memorial Mass will take place at 11 a.m., with visitation one hour prior to the service, on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013, at the Christ The King Catholic Church. The Rev. Raymond Cotter will officiate. Graveside committal services will be held at Oakwood Catholic Diocesan Cemetery in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation, Christ the King Catholic Church or your choice of a worthy cause helping others.

Please share thoughts with the family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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