Judith Gail Zaruba

Judith "Judy" Gail Zaruba, of Hastings, Minnesota passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on July 1, 2025. Judy was preceded in death by her parents Lucille and Raymond Gorny, brother-in-law Patrick Kelsh, nephew Sean Kelsh and many great neighbors from 16th Street. She is survived by her husband, Erven (Erv) Zaruba, son Matt (Theresa) Zaruba and daughter Kara (Jeff) Kelly, sister Patricia (Patti) Kelsh, and eight adoring grandchildren (Matt Jr., Ireland, Ella, Emma, Sawyer, Finn, Dane and Brynn).
Judy was born on November 21, 1938. She attended St. Joseph's Catholic School kindergarten through 8th grade and then Red Wing High School. After Judy graduated from Redwing High School, she worked at Meyer’s Machine as a bookkeeper for many years. At some point in her journey, she was introduced to her future love on a blind date. After marrying the love of her life, Erv Zaruba, on September 20, 1969, they purchased a home in St. Paul, Minnesota where they lived almost six years. Having one son already and a future daughter on the way, they needed a bigger house. Erv and Judy moved to Hastings in 1975 to be closer to Judy's parents and sister. Judy was a full-time mom from the day her kids were born until the day they graduated from high school. She was always available for her kids, had an after-school snack ready, and served a big supper. Erv loved supper time! After her children graduated from Hastings High School and moved on to college, Judy returned to working as a bookkeeper at Rivertown Eye Clinic in Hastings. She worked there for 26 years and loved her job.When Judy wasn’t working, or reading her favorite book, Judy loved having a cold beer or two with her beloved Erv and the neighbors. She thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the deck on the corner of 16th street, watching the cars and people pass, tossing nuts to the squirrels and listening to the bird's chirp. Judy loved candy. Her purse was always full of mints, gum, and candy and would always be willing to share. Judy was an avid dog lover. She enjoyed all animals, especially her beagles, Patsy and Daisy. Finally, Judy loved watching Minnesota sports teams. She was an avid Vikings football fan, especially when they were playing the Packers. She always had the Minnesota Twins playing on the radio. To the staff at United Hospital in St. Paul and Benedictine Living Community who cared for Judy endlessly, on behalf of her, we thank you. She enjoyed every interaction with you. You truly made a huge impact. Her family appreciates all you did for her. Thank You for all you did and will continue to do for others!
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hastings Family Service or Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (2035 15th St W, Hastings, MN 55033) with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in St.Elizabeth Ann Seton Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.