Judith Thurs
Judith A. “Judy” Thurs, 79, of Edgar, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026, at Wausau Manor.
Judy was born January 22, 1947, in Wausau, the daughter of Herbert and Mary (Niewolny) Gottschalk. On July 15,1967, she married Walter M. Thurs in Edgar. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage and raised five children, building a family that would grow to include cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
From 1966 to 1982, Judy worked alongside her mother at the Edgar Beauty Salon. In 1982, she took over ownership and operation of the salon, continuing the work they had shared until her retirement in 2012. Her many years at the salon connected her to generations of people in the Edgar community.
Judy enjoyed bowling, crocheting, and reading, finding time for these favorite pastimes in retirement. She was always ready for her next adventure—whether camping, hopping on a bus to cheer on the Packers, or trying her luck in Las Vegas. Wherever she went, she brought her love of life and a spirit of fun.
Some of her greatest joys came from watching her grandchildren play sports and perform in ballet recitals. She treasured those opportunities to cheer them on and share in their lives.
Judy enjoyed volunteering at her church, where she helped prepare for Friday fish fries and other activities. She also enjoyed her work at ColorVision.
Judy is lovingly remembered by her husband, Walter Thurs, of Edgar; her children: Susan (Gary) Reiche of Weston, Tim (Candy) Thurs of Rib Mountain, Jeff Thurs (Anne Allmann) of Wauwatosa, Dean (Katrina) Thurs of Rib Mountain, and Ryan (Tara) Thurs of Roseville, Minn.; her grandchildren: Andy (Kendra) Reiche, Derek Reiche (Emma Jacobsen), Eliza Thurs, Miles Thurs, Carson Thurs and Ruby Thurs; and her greatgrandchildren: Lennon and Anora Reiche.
She is also survived by her brothers: Paul (Virginia) Gottschalk and Brian (Linda) Gottschalk, both of Wausau, and Dave Gottschalk, of Edgar, along with many nieces and nephews.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Mary Gottschalk; grandson Leo Thurs; her sisters-in-law: Jan Thurs, Jean Rasmussen, Louella Straub and Mamie Warosh; and her brothers-inlaw: Tony Thurs, Raymond Joswiak and Gerald Straub.
Judy’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her—in the everyday moments they shared, the family milestones she celebrated, and the love that continues through each generation.
The funeral Mass was celebrated at noon Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at St. John’s Catholic Church, Edgar. The Reverend Alan Wierzba presided. Burial was in the parish cemetery. Visitation was held on Tuesday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and again on Wednesday from 10:30 until the time of service at the church. There was a parish rosary service at 7 p.m. Tuesday evening at the church.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www. petersonkraemer.com.
