Judith “Judy” Rota, 73, a resident of Phoenix passed away peacefully at her home with her family by her side on Friday, February 10, 2017. After being diagnosed with cancer, three years ago, an angel was sent to help her with her courageous battle. Her friend, live-in caregiver, and the woman who ended up being the daughter she never had, Kelly Tapani, provided Judy with the best most wonderful care she could have ever asked for.

She was born on December 8, 1943 in Laurium, Michigan to John and Jenny (Sullivan) Ninko.

Judy attended Sacred Heart High School and Calumet High School. She graduated from Calumet High School with the Class of 1962.

Following high school, she began working at Warala Drug Store. She worked there until 1967. Judy and her soon to be husband, Jerry purchased the Vansville Bar in Phoenix, Michigan from Jerry’s parents. This began the 3rd generation to operate the Vansville Bar.

On June 8, 1968, Judy married Jerry Rota at the Sacred Heart Church in Calumet.

Judy was known for her hard work ethic, great sense of humor, and “say it like it is” attitude, but even more for her huge heart, kindness, and caring for others.

Judy had a passion for reading, that passion for reading gave her a vast knowledge of many subjects. She always enjoyed a difficult crossword puzzle. She truly enjoyed cooking, baking, and loved watching a great tennis match.

Judy spent 49 years married to the love of her life, Jerry. She was a wonderful, loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She always took pride in caring for her boys.

She was a member of the Keweenaw ATV Club, The Keweenaw Sportsman Club, Michigan Sheriffs Association, Keweenaw County Jury Board, and the Copper Country Snowmobiling Club.

She is survived by:
Her Husband: Jerry Rota of Phoenix, Michigan
Her sons: Michael (Kathy) Rota and their sons Bryce, Matthew, and Dawson of Quinnesec, Michigan
Jason Rota and his son Lauer of Fulton, Michigan

Sister: Anna Mae Lehto of Idaho Falls, Idaho
Brothers: Jack (Valerie) Ninko of Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Jim (Pat) Ninko of Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Sister-in-laws: Marilyn Kivela of Hancock, Michigan
Gloria Peterson of Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Brother-in-laws: James Rota of Ahmeek, Michigan
Bob (Pat) Rota of Denver, Colorado

Her friend who was like a sister: Charlsie Antikainen of Calumet
Special friend and daughter she always wanted: Kelly Tapani of Phoenix, Michigan

And numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Per Judy’s wish, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life ceremony will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2017 at the Siskiwit Reception Hall. The times will be announced on a later date.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com

The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home in Calumet is assisting the family with the arrangements.