In Memory Of

Judith (Judi) Anne Radtke

Jan 6, 1947 - May 14, 2026

Service

Friday, June 5, 2026
2:00 pm
Pioneer Lodge
4324 46A Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta.

Obituary

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Judith Anne Radtke (Judi) on May 14, 2026, in Red Deer, Alberta, at the age of 79.

Judi was the fourth of five children born to Peter and Susie Deck in Chilliwack, British Columbia. Through her father’s aviation career, she had the opportunity to experience many places and meet people from around the world before eventually settling in Red Deer, where she built a meaningful career within the Red Deer education system as both a teacher and librarian. From Indonesia as a 6 year old to many road trips, Germany, and her favourite, Hawaii, Judi loved to explore.

In 1970, she married the love of her life, Manfred ("Bert") Radtke , and together they built a beautiful life centred around family, friendship, and community. Judi lovingly raised three children while balancing a busy household filled with sports, activities, career commitments, and lifelong friendships — many of which remained close and active until her passing.

A lifelong learner, Judi had an unwavering love of reading and knowledge. Books could always be found stacked throughout her home, reflecting her endless curiosity and passion for learning. She was deeply interested in health, personal growth, and the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and she found great fulfillment in helping others discover their own potential. Judi also found joy in camping, gardening, spending time with family, especially her grandchildren, and sharing long conversations over a cup of tea with dear friends.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 55 years, Manfred Radtke “Bert”; her daughter, Kara Gibbons (Ian); her sons, Chris (Nikki) and Josh (Tera); and her cherished grandchildren, Aidan, Ethan, Brennah, Hayley, Olivia, and Nathan. She is also survived by her sisters, Rita Kerschbaum (John) and Teri Wester, along with their families.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Pioneer Lodge, 4324 46A Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Judi’s chosen charities: The Salvation Army, Red Deer Hospital Foundation or STARS.

Condolences

Piet Langstraat:

I met Judi at the beginning of my teaching career at Eastview Junior High. As a beginning teacher it was always great and reassuring to be welcomed by Judi’s smile and infectious laughter. I was new to teaching and new to Red Deer. She took me under her wing and always made sure to check in with me to make sure I was okay.
We worked together on a variety of cooperatively planned units. She was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful.
It is not often that you meet someone so genuinely kind and helpful. I know she will be missed by her family and the Red Deer Public Schools community.

Robert Porkka:

Please accept my sincere condolences. I enjoyed working with Judi as she was a fantastic librarian. Once the sadness passes, may the memories always bring a smile.

Gloria Ross:

Judi and I met and worked together in the 80’s at Eastview Community School. We often enjoyed her homemade muffins and a chat during our breaks. Our friendship continued to develop over the years, sharing favourite authors, travelling to the opera in Edmonton, university courses in Calgary, or book club weeks in Mexico. She was there for me through any trials and tribulations, always the listening ear of a true friend.
I am so saddened by her unexpected and sudden passing and understand how difficult it is for all of you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kathrin Kähmann (*Radtke) :

In 1993, when I was 16, my parents and I spent three weeks in Red Deer, where we visited my dad's aunt "Tante Edith". Judi and Bert did everything, to make these holidays eventful and exciting for us. With her warm smile and her calm and reassuring nature, Judi relieved my anxiety.
She seemed to be the rock in the surf for every family member, always ready to help and support whenever she was needed. She somehow managed to keep everything in perspective and never seemed rattled.

It is hard to grasp that Judi is no longer with us—we hadn’t seen each other in so long. And yet I miss her and am very saddened by her sudden passing. It is always too soon.
Judi will be dearly missed and will remain in our hearts.
My thoughts are with you.

Oliver Radtke:

All of us here in Dortmund were deeply saddened to hear of Judi’s sudden passing.

We had the pleasure of getting to know Judi through her visits to Dortmund over the years. She was one of the most cheerful, vibrant, and life-loving people we have ever met. We will always cherish the long, laughter-filled conversations around my parents’ kitchen table, and we will never forget the loving care and attention she gave to Bert, even back then.

Judi leaves behind a tremendous void. To all of her family and loved ones, we send our heartfelt condolences and wish you strength and comfort in the days ahead. Please take good care of one another and lean on each other during this difficult time.

Sending you all our love and a big hug from across the ocean.

Oliver, Angela, Gisela, Hanna and Noah (Lena)

Glen Stock:

Hello Radtke Family. I am so very sad to hear that Judi has passed away. Such a beautiful person, always a smile on her face. Lots of memories with the Radtke and McNichol family camping, fishing, running with Josh. Judi was always present, making sure everything was perfect for her family and everyone around. It was such a pleasure living close to Judi and Bert for a few years. I hope to see you soon and we can chat more. Lots of love to the Radtke family.

Noah (Lena) Radtke:

I never got the opportunity to meet Judi but from everything I’ve read and heard I can safely say she was incredibly loved and has loved just as much in return.
I’ve heard many stories of her from my grandmother, who still holds her very dear in her memory and I hope you all have many such wonderful memories that will comfort you during these difficult times.
I can only imagine how heartbroken everyone must be and I hope you can all support each other to get through this.

Sending condolences and love from Dortmund / Germany,
N. Radtke

Jean gibbons:

Judi was a wonderful caring person. She will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Donna McNichol :

Aunty Judy had a wonderful soul and was always ready to laugh and help others. She raised 3 beautiful children.
My thoughts go out to her family.
Donna

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