Judith Eileen Bale

Byron Funeral Home Memorial Photo
Date of Birth:
Saturday, July 1, 1944
Date of Death:
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Age:
78 years old

Visitation

Date: Monday March 20, 2023
Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am

Location: Charlie's Eatery & Pub [ view map ]

Remembrance Service

Date: Monday March 20, 2023
Time: 11:30 am

Location: Charlie's Eatery & Pub [ view map ]

Byron Funeral Home Memorial Photo
Date of Birth:
Saturday, July 1, 1944
Date of Death:
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Age:
78 years old
Byron Funeral Home Memorial Photo
Date of Birth:
Saturday, July 1, 1944
Date of Death:
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Age:
78 years old

Judith Eileen Bale

Judith Eileen Bale died on February 22, 2023 at her home. Her passing follows an illness with respiratory diseases.

Judith Eileen Matsuoka was born on July 1, 1944 in Waimea, Hawaii to Kenneth and Yachiyo Matsuoka. She grew up in Makaweli, Kauai and graduated from Waimea High School in 1962. Judi continued her education at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon. She graduated with her Bachelor of Science degree in Speech Pathology as well as Speech and Public Speaking.

Judi met her first husband, Gary Lee Ropp, while attending college. They were married on February 25, 1966. They then lived and worked in California, Florida and finally Minnesota. Sadly, in 1974, Gary passed away from brain cancer. At that time, Judi decided to stay in Minnesota and raise their three children.

Judi then met her current husband, Gary Norman Bale, and they married on November 28, 1975 in Vancouver, Washington. Judi and Gary have lived in Byron during their entire marriage of 47 years. They made lifelong memories and forever friends during their years there.

Judi was a speech pathologist, within various public-school systems, for 29 years. She is consistently remembered as a caring, knowledgeable therapist by all the students she helped. Judi was also regarded as a good friend and colleague by those she worked with. During this time, Judi also spent 9 years in part-time positions as a women’s fragrance consultant at Dayton’s / Marshall Fields. After her retirement, as a speech pathologist, she assumed a full-time position as a fragrance consultant at Herberger’s for 11 years. She was very proud of being a top credit card opener for many months.

Judi’s fondness for gambling brought her to casinos where both she and Gary enjoyed spending time. She often had a story to share about her experiences there. She truly had a “golden touch”.

Judi will always be remembered for her generosity, charisma and exuberance. As a “people person” she had the ability to make others feel special and seen. From her countless stories and humor to her musical talent, Judi was magnetic. Whether you were a student, customer, co-worker or passerby she consistently drew people in.

Judi is survived by her husband, Gary Bale of Byron, Minnesota. She is also survived by her four children, Kenneth Ropp of Germantown, Maryland, Cherie (Philip) Gartner of McLean, Virginia and their two children Alena and Ethan, Michele (Jason) Hull of Plymouth, Minnesota and her daughter Taylor, Eric (Erin) Bale of Eden Prairie, Minnesota and their three children Kamea, Braden and Edith. Judi was dearly loved as a grandma and “Little Mama”  to her six grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Kenny Matsuoka of West Linn, Oregon. Judi was a light in her family’s world and will never be forgotten.

Judi was preceded in death by her first husband Gary Ropp, her parents Kenneth and Yachiyo Matsuoka and her brother Gary Matsuoka.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 20, 2023, from 10:00am – 11:30am at Charlie’s Eatery and Pub in Rochester, Minnesota with a Remembrance Service at 11:30am. Immediately following the visitation, please join us for lunch. Judi’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Moments Hospice and all who helped them during her illness. Blessed be Judi’s memory as she transitions from this life to the next.

Aloha, until we meet again.

Condolences

The family of Judith Eileen Bale has received the following condolences.

Gary, I’m so sorry about your wife’s death. You and others have my deepest sympathy. Your friend and coworker, Jan Headley, Receptionist, Rochester Chevrolet Cadillac


 

Dear, Eric, Michele and Family,


I am so very sorry for the loss of your mother. 


I have so many fond childhood memories at your house as we played games, endless sleepovers and often times would sit in the kitchen and talk with your mom. She was an amazing person who was genuine, sincere and kind.  Always asking how we were doing and how my mother and family was.  This would always be the case, no matter where I happened to cross paths with your mother.  


At the early age before moving into "the neighborhood", I remember going to her office for speech therapy.  Her office was always warm and friendly just as your mother was.  She was patient and always knew the right things to say to a child who was struggling and frustrated just to say anything.  For this and countless of other things I thank you Judi. 


Please know that you all have been in my heart, in my thoughts and in my prayers over the last few days and weeks. I am sorry that I will not be able to attend the services tomorrow.  I wish that I could be there to help comfort and support all those who loved Judi for the amazing woman she was.  Though I will not be there in person, I will have your entire family in my in my heart and thoughts.  


Judi, I know that are resting in eternal life and watching over your husband, children and grandchildren.  


Love, Mark and Family 

To the Family of Judi,


 We are so sorry for your loss of Mother , Grandmother and Wife. She will be missed.


I knew your Mother as a neighbor, friend and speech pathologist. But how Judi truly touched my life was through the gift of her children. I have countless memories that I treasure of Michele and Eric playing with my children. Whether in our back yard, in each others houses and even family trips to the cabin these children touched our lives. I hope that you all can find peace and comfort in the loving memories that you have as a family!


May God Bless your family and keep you safe.


Carol Petersen 

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

To the Family of Judi,


 We are so sorry for your loss of Mother , Grandmother and Wife. She will be missed.


I knew your Mother as a neighbor, friend and speech pathologist. But how Judi truly touched my life was through the gift of her children. I have countless memories that I treasure of Michele and Eric playing with my children. Whether in our back yard, in each others houses and even family trips to the cabin these children touched our lives. I hope that you all can find peace and comfort in the loving memories that you have as a family!


May God Bless your family and keep you safe.


Carol Petersen 

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

To the Family of Judy Bale,


 


Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your wonderful mother and wife, Judy Bale.  


 


I had the pleasure of working with her when she served as our Speech Language Therapist at Byron Elementary School, and Dianne worked with her one year as a fellow teacher.  We both knew Judy as an outstanding colleague, neighbor, and, most of all, friend throughout all our years in Byron.


 


I have many fond memories of working with her:   


 


…. She always had an engaging smile on her face! 


 


…. Her sense of humor, her positive nature, and her joyous laugh were contagious!  The room would come alive when Judy entered.  Her abundant energy and outgoing personality engaged everyone in proximity, and she proved to be a friend to all. 


 


…. Judy was a fashion icon!  Always impeccably dressed and professional, she set the bar very high!  


 


…. I remember Judy as a kind, giving, delightful person whose excellent clinical skills benefitted so many of Byron’s children.  


 


…. Always a professional, she inspired and modeled teamwork and collaboration for the good of the students.  


 


…. She was valued and admired by colleagues and families.  Everyone trusted her. 


 


… She was always an active and integral member of our wider Byron community.


 


…. She adored her children and her family.  They were always her first priority, and she was forever devoted and dedicated to them. 


 


To Judy’s Beloved Children -  Each of you is a living tribute to your incredible mother.


 


 


           We celebrate Judy and her life well-lived.


 


 


Fred & Dianne Storti

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

I got to know Judi when my daughter and her family moved in next door.  As a mom I was so happy that they had such a nice neighbor. Judi was one of the nicest, friendliest people I have ever met.  She will be missed! My sympathy to all of you.


103

To the family of Judi. We are very sorry to hear for your loss. We are sending our thoughts, prayers, and lots of love during this difficult time. 
We had first met Judi at Hy-Vee. She was a regular for us. Anytime we would see her, it brought an immediate smile to our faces. She always had to check in on us and make sure we were doing okay. She truly had a big heart, and we are beyond thankful and blessed we got to meet her. We truly cherish every moment and conversation we shared. 
We’re sending our biggest condolences. Don’t forget to take care of yourselves as well during this time. 


Aloha
Tianna B. & Joshua S. 

Dear Ken, Cherie, Michele, and Eric,


I am so sorry for your loss of your mom.  Judi was certainly a well-liked and beloved person from all who met her.  I believe I first met her in 2nd grade when she would come in whisk me up and bring me to speech therapy class.  I don't remember what she said, I just remember I always felt comfortable and at complete ease with her.  As you already know, that was just one of her many gifts.  My guess is that Judi helped hundreds if not thousands of students over the years.  I cannot imagine the sadness that you are going through.  My thoughts are with all of you and your extended family.


God Bless-


Michael

Sympathies to the family of Judith Bale. A memory to share with you. I was in charge of Project Kids in Byron. We were doing a special event on Hawaii. Judi and another teacher came in grass skirts , played the uke , and sang.  The kids loved it.  How special was that. Judi always was so friendly when when ever we ran into each other and was always smiling.  Carol King

Sympathies to the family of Judith Bale. A memory to share with you. I was in charge of Project Kids in Byron. We were doing a special event on Hawaii. Judi and another teacher came in grass skirts , played the uke , and sang.  The kids loved it.  How special was that. Judi always was so friendly when when ever we ran into each other and was always smiling.  Carol King

I met Judy years ago as she did her work in the school district where I was employed. She was so kind, and a bright light to all who met her. Rest in peace sweet angel! You have been a good and faithful servant! ❤️

Judi was a shining light. Our mother, Judy Lindman, met Judi when she first moved to Rochester. They became dearest friends. They both had a great sense of humor, generous hearts, and loved to spend time together. We have fond memories of spending time with the Ropp-Bale family. Our love to all of you-


Jody and Jed Lindman

I send my condolences to the family.  Judy was my Godmother. Cherish the memories and always hold her in your heart. 

Gary,


 Sorry to hear of your loss.


Sam.


 

It is with a heavy hand I am writing to commemorate Judi, my “little mama”. I send my deepest sympathies to all who knew, cherished, and loved her. She was inspiring, magnetic, and captivating— she had this remarkable ability of making people feel special and seen. Judi had an immeasurable impact on my life and made Minnesota feel like home. Whenever I came to visit, she would parade me around the supermarket, mall, post office, nail salon, etc. and I would feel like a movie star by simply being her granddaughter. I wish heaven had a landline so I could call and hear her voice. Although I will spend the rest of my life missing her, I hope she has found her home in the stars. 


 


I love you mama, Your Alena

Our sincere sympathy on the passing of Judy. She was the most kind, caring person and a wonderful teacher, and also a great neighbor!

Our sincere sympathy on the passing of Judy. She was the most kind, caring person and a wonderful teacher, and also a great neighbor!

Our sincere sympathy on the passing of Judy. She was the most kind, caring person and a wonderful teacher, and also a great neighbor!

To Gary and Family,


Our last visit with dinner and conversation a few years back was special.  We were on our first RV trip thru Minnesota and It was great to see you and Judi.


Our thoughts and prayers are with you.   Lew and Francy Ropp

Michelle and family- Our condolences to you and your family at this time of loss. 
I’m sure your wonderful memories of your mom will be a great comfort for you. 

My condolences to the family. Judy was a very kind person and wonderful teacher. She will be missed.

I'm terribly sorry for your loss. Judy was my speech therapist during my early years in school. She helped me alot, and she was an awesome person to be around.

I'm terribly sorry for your loss. Judy was my speech therapist during my early years in school. She helped me alot, and she was an awesome person to be around.

My friend Judi Bale, she was a wonder, beautiful in every way. I have been so blessed to have had Judi in my life for almost twenty years. I had the great privilege of sharing our three Bale grandchildren, together.                                                 Just two grandmothers who loved and wanted the best for the grandchildren.            Judi was so kind, caring, loving and funny.   She always made me feel so special.              
Love you forever my darling friend. I will miss you. F. McErlane.                                 Sending Heartfelt condolences to Gary and his family.

Judy has a smile that lights up a room. I worked with her in Byron and at the Mall in Rochester. Always kind and caring. I enjoyed seeing her around and our quick visits. I respect her skills when she worked with one of my kids. He still has great appreciation for her. Aloha dear Judy.