JuDee Sue Vandenburg

JuDee Sue Vandenburg, our mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away March 22, 2014. A long-time resident of Spokane, WA, she had recently moved to 31311 E. Steelhead Drive in Arlington, WA.

JuDee was born in Spokane, WA to Suzanne Tarvin and Robert Godfrey on June 1, 1949. She graduated from Rogers High School, and spent her life working in different facets of retail, most enjoying her work as a florist. A woman of empathy and compassion, JuDee spent her life taking care of others. She always put others’ needs before her own. She truly cared for people, and gave generously of herself. She was an avid gardener, a lover of animals, and deeply committed to her family. Her first loves were her grandchildren, her dog (Buddie), and her family and friends.

JuDee married Lou F. Vandenburg in 1978 and they had just celebrated their 36th wedding anniversary on February 4, 2014. They lived in Spokane for 33 years before retiring to Arlington, WA to live next door to her son, Shane Michael Ruthven, daughter-in-law Katie Ruthven, and grandchildren Hunter and Wyatt Ruthven. They were all victims of the Oso, WA Mudslide.

JuDee is survived by her children, Darron Bowerman, daughter-in-law, Kate Bowerman, and Amy Ruthven-Thompson, and her grandchildren Samuel Thompson, Colleen Bowerman, and Hannah Bowerman, all of Spokane, WA. JuDee Vandenburg was preceded in death by her mother, Suzanne Tarvin-Bowerman, and her aunt and uncle, Evelyn and Richard Smart.

She taught her grandchildren compassion, love, how to be non-judgmental, and how to smile. Mom was an instant friend to anyone she met and her smile would warm your soul. Her hobbies included her crafts, gardening, loving her family,and spoiling her dog, Buddie.

A graveside service will be held at a later date for family members.

A reception will be held at a later day for family and friends.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Humane Society

Arrangements under the direction of Weller Funeral Home, Arlington, WA.