Judith A. Szumelda

Judy A. Szumelda (nee Blaszczyk), of Crown Point, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at her home in the Lakes of the Four Seasons. Judy was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 7, 1952, to the late Ernie and Anne Blaszczyk. She married her adoring husband Ronald Szumelda in 1983. The greatest joy of her life were her two children, Amanda (Dan) Ellis of Mount Prospect, Illinois, and Joey Szumelda of Valparaiso, Indiana. She was “Grandma Judy” to grandson Jordan and granddaughter Addison. She is survived by her two loving sisters, Jane (Greg) Luptak of Union, Kentucky, and Anne Marie (Tom) Deja of Union, Kentucky; her nieces, Amber and Erin Deja. She attended Mercy High School in Chicago and went on to attend Saint Mary of Nazareth School of Nursing. Judy dedicated more than 30 years of her life to caring for others as a nurse, serving in a variety of settings including medical-surgical, obstetrics and gynecology, recovery, and home health. She approached her work with compassion, skill, and a deep commitment to her patients. Some of Judy’s happiest moments were spent at home, especially during the summer months, enjoying time in the backyard with family and neighbors. She also cherished the simple joy of polka dancing with her sister, Jane—moments filled with laughter and lasting memories. Judy had a special love for animals, particularly dogs. She previously volunteered with a local shelter, reflecting her generous and caring spirit. Her beloved shih tzu, Phoebe, was her constant companion and brought her immense comfort and happiness. She found joy in music across generations, from The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Elvis Presley to the Backstreet Boys. She never missed watching her favorite television show, General Hospital, at 2:00 p.m.—a time when she was never to be interrupted—as well as sharing evenings watching Columbo and Jeopardy! with her husband. She was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears. A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Judy’s memory to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Lakeshore PAWS Animal Rescue, or the Alzheimer’s Association. Burns Funeral Home, Crown Point entrusted with arrangements. Please visit Judy’s online obituary and guestbook at www.bunsfuneral.com.

Judith A. Szumelda

January 7, 1952 - April 14, 2026