Judith A. Belenchia

Judith Belenchia, beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 85, on October 17th 2024. Born on July 23, 1939, in Calumet, Michigan, she was the youngest of nine children of the late Bartholomew and Alma Florence (Christensen) Venturino. Judith met the love of her life, Charles Wesley Belenchia, and they married on January 4, 1957, when she was just 18 and a half. Their union was marked by a deep love and partnership that lasted a lifetime. He proceeded her in death in March of 2018. As a mother to Lori and Susan, she was strong, selfless, and fiercely protective of her children, instilling in them the values of honesty and resilience. Judith's legacy of warmth and generosity will be cherished by all who knew her. A woman of many passions, Judith had a profound love for the UP, often reminiscing about its natural beauty and charm. She embraced the local culture, and her affectionate “eh” reflected her roots. Judith enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to explore numerous countries, but some of her favorite memories were the train trips to Toronto with her grandchildren, Adam and Lauren Kudirka to whom she was affectionately known as Gma. They created lasting memories during these adventures, filled with laughter and exploration. Known for her bright white hair, Judith’s vibrant personality shone through in everything she did. She had a unique ability to find joy in the little things, often spending time watching clouds and imagining images within them. She also loved baking pies and shopping, with a keen sense of style that showcased her zest for life. A frequent attendee at concerts and theater productions, she delighted in the arts and shared these moments with loved ones. Known for her infectious laughter and abundant compliments, she also had a playful spirit and a penchant for swearing like a sailor. Judith cherished her simple pleasures, often enjoying a beer with a neighbor and keeping a bottle of Irish Mist by her bedside, embodying her warm and welcoming spirit. She is survived by her loving children: Lori Kudirka, married to Anthony Kudirka, and Susan Belenchia, married to Michael Todoroff. Judith also took great joy in her grandchildren, including Adam Kudirka, who is married to Courtney “Courtnelius” Cave, and Lauren Kudirka, who is engaged to Nicholas “Nickels” Leeman. She was excited knowing that she was going to become a great grandmother, as Adam & Courtney are expecting a baby girl in January. Memorial gathering will be held on Friday, October 25th from 3 PM until the 6 PM Memorial Service at Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, 46401 Ann Arbor Road West (Between Sheldon and Beck) Plymouth. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Humane Society in Judith’s memory. To share a memory, please use the share a memory tab on this webpage.

Judith A. Belenchia

July 23, 1939 - October 17, 2024