She was born to David and Joyce Johnston on November 2, 1942 in Townsend, Montana. Her dad was employed at Sedgewick Grocery in White Sulphur Springs, Montana where they lived until her dad joined the Navy in 1944. On his return from the Navy the family moved to Laurel, Montana where she grew up. She attended Eastern Montana College majoring in music and art. She was a talented singer participating in music groups in high school, college and the Lake Washington Singers when she lived in the Seattle area. She continued her art and design interests studying Interior Design at Spokane Community College.
She married Gene Olsen on June 21, 1964 after their first dance Labor Day weekend at the Melody Lane in White Sulphur Springs, the start of a lifetime of dancing wherever there was music. They lived in Seattle and Billings before settling in Spokane, Washington. The time spent each year in Palm Springs was special and dance music could be found on cruises and in different venues in their many travels. A special trip and dancing in Buenos Aires was a highlight for her. She was a talented artist, designer of beautiful jewelry, a fashion maven and a wonderful cook. Family gatherings at the home she built (yes, she was the construction supervisor) and decorated were always special. She had great pride In finding things to accentuate this special home including a had carved antique newel post from a ranch house near White Sulphur Springs (thanks to local antiquer Vera Edwards) which she integrated into the design of her home. Judy continued her love of Montana with frequent visits and eventual ownership of her childhood home In White Sulphur Springs and her dad’s hunting cabin location in rural Meagher County, Montana. Her design and decorating skills are obvious in each of these locations.
Judy Is survived by Gene, her husband of 60 years, daughter Kari, son Christian (Chip) and son David, grandchildren Kolby, Makena, Gena and Megan and great grandchildren Wyatt and Rydan. Services are planned for internment at Mayn Cemetery in White Sulphur Springs at a later date.
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