Judith "Judy" L. Wetterling

Judith “Judy” Wetterling, 72, of Willmar, died Friday, July 31 at Bethesda Grand in Willmar. Her memorial service will be 11:00 am, Friday, August 7 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Willmar. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:00 am Friday at the church. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar.

Judith Lynn Gatewood was born on June 15, 1954, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Stanley and Vernice (Allinder) Gatewood. She was the oldest of their three children. Judy graduated from Willmar High School in 1972 and later earned her associate’s degree from Willmar Community College. She spent her entire work life at ACMC in Willmar, retiring in 2020.

Judy was baptized and confirmed at Svea Lutheran Church in Svea, Minnesota. She married Jon Wetterling there, and together they raised their two children, Jennifer and Joseph. After starting their family, they became active members of Bethel Lutheran Church in Willmar.

Judy volunteered in many areas of the church over the years. She taught Sunday school, served on the Christian Education Committee, worked in the church office, and was a member of the Altar Guild. She also helped with the church's annual Lucia event, including preparing butterballs, organizing the dining room, and making costumes for Sunday school participants.

Judy enjoyed crafting, decorating, baking, and caring for her flower gardens. She was especially known for creating unique chenille crafts, earning the nickname "Queen of Chenille." She also enjoyed quillwork.

Judy and Jon shared an interest in the fur trade and rendezvous community. They attended local and national rendezvous events, made their own period clothing, and enjoyed creating beadwork and other traditional handcrafted items.

Judy is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Austin) Martin of Cold Spring; son, Joe (fiancé, Keli Eidem) Wetterling of Willmar; granddaughters, Evelyn and Emma; brother, Gene (Shelly) Gatewood of Willmar; sister, Jill (Rich) Gill of Perham; mother-in-law, Betty Wetterling of Willmar; brother-in-law, Lee Wetterling; sister-in-law, Lynn (Roger) Mischke; and many nieces and nephews.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Jon; her parents; and father-in-law, Jerry Wetterling.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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