Judy Unser

1943 - 2025

 Judith Erma Unser, passed away in Taber on Friday, February 7, 2025 at the age of 81 years.

Born: Sometime between the invention of the wheel and disco

Passed Away: Fashionably late, as always

Judy Unser, the youngest of eight (because her parents clearly believed in strength in numbers), has finally cashed in her chips at the great casino in the sky. Raised in the rugged wilderness of Saskatchewan, she quickly learned that life was best tackled with humor, a competitive spirit, and the occasional well aimed rock rolled down a hill.

Judy married John, a man brave enough to take on both her wit and her legendary card skills. Together, they had four kids, who, despite her best efforts, never quite managed to beat her at games. They built a life in Rolling Hills, where they ran Unser’s Tire Service, proving that while John fixed tires, Judy kept the business rolling with her charm and undeniable authority. Then more opponents joined the family in the form of grandkids and great grandkids. They also never quite managed to beat her at her games.

Judy’s life was full of laughter, friends, and a bit of mischief. She was a master at cards, a skilled fisherwoman, a hunting aficionado and, let’s be honest, an absolute shark when it came to games. She never let anyone forget that she was the reigning champion of anything that required skill, luck, or sheer determination (which was everything, according to her).

After a well earned retirement to Taber, Judy tried “taking it easy” by working at Mereski’s Jewelery store and Johnson’s Drug Store, because retirement was clearly just a suggestion. When John passed away, Judy’s next chapter brought her together with Mel, a “partner in crime” who matched her love for adventure, cards and good company. The two of them gallivanted across southern Alberta, collecting memories, friendships, and likely a few IOUs from unfortunate card opponents.

Judy leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and stories that will be retold at family gatherings for generations. She passed knowing she was cherished, undefeated in many games, and deeply loved by her family and friends. She will be greatly missed, except at card night, where some might finally have a fighting chance.

Raise a glass, shuffle the deck, and play a hand in her honor—just know that somewhere, somehow, Judy is still winning.

 A private burial service will be held at the Rolling Hills Cemetery.

The service will be held at Rolling Hills Community Centre, corner of 3 Street and Highway 875, Rolling Hills on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 11:00 A.M.