It is with sad hearts we announce the passing of Judy Faye Williamson Zeliznik on November 19, 2023 at the age of 72. She was born in Saskatchewan on May 10, 1951, the daughter of Rita and Thomas Zeliznik. She grew up in Medicine Hat but left Alberta behind and moved to the West Coast, landing in Victoria with her dear friend Dale, in 1972. Dale recalled that Judy sat on a hill in Beacon Hill Park and cried, looking at the ocean, when they arrived. She felt that she had “come home”.
After a few short moves, Judy eventually settled in Langley, BC. where she lived with her partner Chris. They created a beautiful, calm and serene space. It was a haven for Judy. She loved being in her home, in front of the fire, outside on the deck, or watching “The Young and the Restless”! She loved thrift stores and would find amazing bargains. She loved the simple things in life.
Judy enjoyed ‘hitting the road’ to go on vacation. She loved the ocean, Beacon Hill Park in Victoria, the Gulf Islands, the Oregon Coast, yet she always had something of the prairies in her soul. Among the highlights were many September trips with her brother, Brian, travelling down the Oregon Coast. She was happiest with good friends enjoying conversations and having a few Guinness. She loved to go for walks, have an afternoon at the Casino, and listen to music from the old days. We will never listen to Elvis without thinking of Judy.
Judy worked at Revenue Canada and retired at an early age. She made lifelong friends while working there. Attentive and quiet, she would draw people out in conversation. She was easy to talk to, understanding and supportive of her friends.
Judy, you left us too soon. We will always think of you sitting in the sunshine on a bench, looking at the ocean, with a Guinness in your hand.
A favourite saying of Jude’s is: “Here’s to it, to do it and do it again. Because if you never get to it, to do it, then you never get to it to do it again”.
So, raise a glass and think of Judy Faye.
Judy leaves behind: Her partner of 37 years, Christopher John Townsend who loved and adored her. Her brother Brian Thomas Zeliznik, nephew Michael Kenneth Thomas, niece Lisa Ann Maria Suchow, and many close friends – too numerous to name. Predeceased by: Parents Thomas and Rita Zeliznik
November 26th, 2023
"Jumpin' Jude," a nickname that I always called Judy, as it perfectly encapsulated her vibrant spirit and the joy she brought into every conversation. Judy had the rare gift of making every chat feel effortless and meaningful, regardless of the topic. Our daily text exchanges, filled with laughter and the most whimsical, light-hearted discussions, became a cherished part of my days. Losing her means losing those precious moments of connection - the delightful texts that brightened my days, the sound of her voice that always seemed to carry a smile, and the irreplaceable presence of someone who was so much more than a friend - she was like family to me. Her absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt, and her memory will be treasured in the many lives she touched. Love, Brianne AKA "Moe Gal."
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