Judith “Judy” Mae Asker

Judith “Judy” Asker, known fondly as Judy, was born on April 13th, 1962, and passed away peacefully on August 27th, 2023, after a short illness. Judy was a joyful and sparkling individual, and her tail wagging enthusiasm always brought a smile to everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her devoted husband Thomas Asker, whom she married in 2003, and her two children Jennifer Cosgrove (Aaron) and Edward Steele (Stephanie). As well as her grandchildren Elliot, Norah, Brooks, Jackson, and Sophia. Judy took great pride in her family, considering them her greatest accomplishment. Her ceaseless love for her family did not stop at her immediate household. She is also survived by her sister Ramona Freiburger (Mark) as well as a niece, nephew, and other extended family. Judy was predeceased by her parents Edward (2022) and Diane Miller (2007).

Judy grew up in Montevideo, MN. She had a wonderful, happy childhood with many lasting relationships that continued throughout her life. Her parents owned the local A&W where Judy started working at just 10 years old! She excelled as a member of the swim team and graduated high school in 1980.

Judy began her life in Canada in 1983 where she worked and built a life until her passing. Judy was well known in the Winnipeg arts community, senior living communities and worked extensively with Canadians with Disabilities trying to make accessible activities for all. Judy worked within the Anglican church denomination for over 15 years and volunteered her time with many boards and organizations. Judy spent several years teaching adjunctly at Red River College, and recently retired from her position as the executive director of the Winnipeg Philharmonic Choir. She was looking forward to spending more time on her hobbies and family.
In 2020, Judy was able to move to Des Moines, IA, next door to her daughter and family and later to Edmonton, AB in 2021 where she split her time between her children and grandchildren. Judy always managed to make any place feel like home for her loved ones.

Judy had a love of travel, most often with her sister. Together they traveled around the world to places like Ireland, Italy, Africa, Germany, the Netherlands, and other stops all over Europe. But often her favorite vacations were ones taken with the entire family all together. Judy enjoyed simpler things like a movie on the big screen with her grandkids, sleepovers, and passing on her baking and pie making skills to her grandson Elliot. She had an affinity for the song “Brandy” by Looking Glass and loved to play various board games. Outside of the house, she enjoyed going for long bike rides with Tommy, and in recent years became an avid pickleball player.

Those who knew and loved her will remember Judy for her incredible generosity, her diligence in her work, and attitude of “no regrets." These, along with her other qualities will be the cornerstone of her enduring legacy.

Judy's life was a testament to her belief in Christ, the importance of family, joy, positivity, and generosity. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and will continue to inspire those who carry her lessons and memories in their hearts.