January 7, 1941 – March 23, 2026
We are heartbroken to share that our Mother, Baba, and great-grandmother, Judie Felbel (Kowalchuk), passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, at the age of 85. She was born on January 7, 1941, as the only child of Eugene and Helen Kowalchuk in Fort William, Ontario.
Judie met Walter Felbel and they tied the knot in 1965. She had a passion for fishing and camping at Whitefish Lake. Many wonderful trips were taken to Manitoba to fish, play cards, and enjoy time with Walter’s family. She also loved going to casinos and made it a tradition to visit Georgetown each year while cherishing moments with her cousin Danny (Carol) Olenik.
Family meant everything to Judie. You could always count on her to bring her homemade Perogies to family gatherings.
She began her career with the City of Thunder Bay tax department and finished at Versa Care after serving as Office Manager for an impressive 38 years. Judie truly enjoyed her work along with all the staff, residents, and their families.
Her cheerful personality made her social and kind; she was just a happy-go-lucky person overall.
Judie will be greatly missed by her son Alan (Nicole), daughters Michele (Charlie) and Jennifer (Sean). She is also survived by her grandchildren Jasmin (Marcus), Samantha (Joe), Alexis, Jayson, Tyler, along with six great-grandchildren. Her cousins Danny and Carol Olenik as well as Michael and Lynn Olenik also survive her.
She was preceded in death by her husband Walter along with her parents Eugene and Helen.
She will always hold a special place in the hearts of everyone who knew her.
In line with her wishes, there will be no funeral service held.
We want to express our gratitude to Dr. Chan, the Cancer Centre team, and all the staff on 1A-especially Carly-for their exceptional care during this time.
If you knew Judie well enough to raise a glass in her honor-have a beer for her. That’s what she would’ve wanted.
Condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
