Judy Juker

Judy Elaine Juker, 75 of Buhl, passed away October 9, 2021 at River Rock Assisted Living in Buhl.

Judy was born to James and Ruby Juker on November 2, 1945 in Twin Falls, Idaho.  She grew up in Buhl and attended Buhl Schools.  Judy attended the College of Southern Idaho, gained her bachelor’s degree from Idaho State University and then a Master’s degree in education from the College of Idaho in Caldwell with an emphasis on counseling.

Judy’s early career included waitressing in Las Vegas as well as waitressing at the R & R restaurant in Buhl where her mother Ruby served as a cook.  Judy had her beautician’s license as a “back up in case she needed it.”  Judy’s true passion came in her love of teaching fourth grade for 37 years.  She served on textbook committees in math and health, comprehensive curriculum development and assessments.

She coached volleyball at the Jr. High level early in her teaching career.  She was well known for her love of Elvis Presley and students and teachers alike would hear his music throughout the halls of the elementary.  Judy believed in hard work, fair discipline and that each child should practice good manners.  Since retirement, Judy had frequently been approached by former students to attend their class reunions, weddings and social events.  Judy rarely met a stranger and was known for her gregarious personality.

Judy loved to travel.  Her adventures took her to the eastern part of the United States where she and other teacher companions studied historical sights, enjoyed regional cuisine and local entertainment.  Graceland was one of her favorite locations to visit.  She traveled to Europe and enjoyed learning about other countries and cultures.  One of her last trips included a visit to Tennessee with a Magic Valley Senior tour to the Ark.

Judy’s outside interests included backstage crew at Dilettante productions at CSI, K-Kids co-sponsor at Popplewell Elementary, past member and ladies twilight golfer at Clear Lake Country Club.  She was a long time member of the Buhl First Christian Church.

Judy was a faithful member of the Northview Ladies Club.  She served on committees and took park in activities and projects.  She loved the Northview community and enjoyed a drive around the countryside noting the location of current friends or past acquaintances.  She was a country girl at heart and loved the outdoors.  She loved looking over the fields curious about what crops were growing and who the current farmer was.  She would note seasonal changes and was passionate about caring for the land.

She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant sister, Janice Kay Juker.

Judy is survived by her brothers, Jim (Judy) Juker and Rick Juker; nieces and nephews, Dawn Juker, Jason, Jacob and Justin Juker, Joe Griggs, and Jason Nipper; and many cousins and extended family.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 23, 2021, at the First Christian Church, 1005 Poplar St, Buhl, with a viewing at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at the West End Cemetery, Buhl.