Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Judy passed away October 31, 2022, at the Vero Beach VNA Hospice House. She was born September 9, 1947, in Appleton, Wisconsin to Nellie Little Burdick and Rupert Burdick. Judy moved to Florida, primarily West Palm Beach, at a young age, and didn’t move to Vero Beach until she married Gerald Thomas Capak in 1969.
Judy worked in a supporting role in the family business “Osceola Pharmacy and Homecare” on several occasions and positions. She also owned and ran Calliope Gift Baskets when it was located in the Citrus Bowl Plaza. However, she would be most proud to say she was a homemaker and child chauffeur for most of her adult life. She was happiest when she had a gaggle of kids dragging them to practices, games or on trips.
Judy has 2 children Janet Louise Capak and Stephan Andrew Capak. But she is known as “Mama Judy” to kids and people from all over the world. Her home was open to almost anyone that needed her. Her kind, fun spirit and huge heart is what she will mostly be remembered for.
Judith wasn’t interested in anyone lamenting her passing. She didn’t wish to have a service. She originally wanted a big party, like her past Halloween Balls, but then cooler heads prevailed and she left it to her family to do something appropriate for her. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
It’s hard to capture Judy’s essence in writing but anyone that knew her saw a special, fun, larger than life character that will be greatly missed.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
Beth Baldwin - Friend
November 2, 2022, 3:30 pm
My Dearest Judy..so many times I have thought of you and a smile comes across my face. I remember meeting you long before I knew your family. You greeted me with an open heart when we met and you were painting your daughter’s office for her anticipated arrival to begin her law practice… which made me love you even more. We shared so many fun times from trips to Orlando to yard sales at your home and many many holiday dinners in between. The world was a better place having you with your kindness and open heart with that big laugh…I will miss you always. Rest in Peace my Sweet Friend…with love, The Baldwin Family
Ericka Jacobs - Niece
November 6, 2022, 2:25 pm
Aunt Judy was a blessing to all who knew her. She treated everyone with courtesy, respect and dignity. She was selfless in her giving and was a gracious host. Some of my fondest childhood memories involve her including Disney adventures, Camp Capak, a trip to Ireland and England, and every single party she was involved in. She will be missed greatly but her legacy will never pass
Zuzana - Extended family
November 6, 2022, 2:29 pm
Dear Judy, your approach to life, your love with a great mix of sarcasm, jokes, willingness to help and to make happy anyone who crossed your path, were all inspiring and a great lecture to me. All being a perfect blend and creating a safe haven for so many people around you. I loved your funky and dirty humor, your soft side, your straightforwardness and your way to handle anything and everything. The first meeting during “AR rescue mission” has a special place in my heart… You will be missed so, so much…last years were tough on you…Rest in peace, enjoy the party up in there now, with flamingos and everything. Love you, Mama Judy, wish I could tell you that one more time in person…Zuzana, also on behalf of Robert, Mom (Emily) and the rest of your Slovak family
Jo Anne Landreth ( cousin) - Cousin
November 6, 2022, 3:23 pm
Condolences to the family.
Wendy Walling - Friend
November 6, 2022, 3:23 pm
I met Mama Judy years ago… I worked for her at Calliope Gift Baskets… I will always remember her for her antics and huge huge heart she had!! I am truly sorry for her passing Janet and Andy… may you RIP Mama Judy. Wendy Walling and family
Alexandra Nunez - Daughter in law
November 6, 2022, 4:37 pm
She was indeed Mama Judy to many of us. Such a giving and caring heart is hard to find. You touched many of our lives. The world lost a very special being. You will be always in my heart. May you rest in peace. Love, Alex Nunez (Ciuca)
Peggy Wilson - Niece
November 6, 2022, 5:07 pm
A bright light, a funny character, a brake-the-rules kinda lady. Our Aunt Judy. Family is hard — she will be remembered for all her loving, happy and beautiful attributes. Rest east Aunt Judy. – Cousin Peggy
Dawn Denault - Friend
November 6, 2022, 10:35 pm
Judy,you will always be remembered by me as a fun and giving person that loved to care for others. The lights of your life being Janet and Andy. I enjoyed working for you and with you.What a great time we always had traveling to Miami to shop for Calliope. So many laughs.I will miss running into you at the old Fatboys. I will miss you!! ~~ Dawn Denault
Christine Vining - Friend
November 6, 2022, 11:29 pm
Judy, You opened your home to a bunch of us crazy kids back in high school where we first met Janet and your whole family. Many, many fun times were had with you at your always open door home- just drop the keys at the door. We may have moved on in our lives, but you will always be remembered as a kind, loving, tell it like it was mother to a lot of us. Janet you and Andy are in our prayers. Many thoughts and prayers for you all.
Connie Mitchell - Longtime friend
April 14, 2023, 2:34 am
I did not know of your passing until now.You were a good friend starting from Jr. High School and High School and on….. You opened your home to me when I needed one. I’ve thought of you so many times through the years. You are a very special. Connie Mitchell