Obituary of Judith W. Van Tries

Judith "Judy" W. Van Tries, 74, of Pine Grove, formerly of Julian, died Sunday, August 5, 2018, at Hershey Medical Center. Born January 9, 1944, in Lemont, she was the daughter of the late T. Guy and Elizabeth Pearl Hite Williams. On February 28, 1964, she married David S. Van Tries. Judy is survived by her husband, David, of 54 years; son, Thomas Van Tries and his wife, Christine, of Schuylkill Haven; three cherished grandchildren, Erika Van Tries, Mason Van Tries, and Hayden Van Tries of Schuylkill Haven; siblings, Beatrice Clouser of Lemont, Calvin Williams and his wife, Dolores, of Lemont, and Nancy Mills and her husband, Howard, of Stephens City, VA; and 16 nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Judy was preceded in death by five of her siblings, Pauline Phelps, Robert Williams, Thomas Williams, Martha Lowery, and Frances Williams. Judy graduated from State College High School in 1962. She retired from Penn State University. Judy enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She loved nature, wildlife, and animals, especially her dogs. She had fond memories of hiking Mt. Nittany with her father as a child. In later years, she would go on long drives through the mountains and woods to take in the beauty and look for wildlife. Judy enjoyed many fishing trips to Canada with her family and friends. She was also very artistic and enjoyed writing poetry, drawing, painting, and calligraphy. Friends will be received from 2 until 3 p.m., on Friday, August 10, 2018 at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College. The memorial service will immediately follow at 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to Hershey Medical Center, American Cancer Society, or Hospice of Central Pennsylvania, in memory of Judith "Judy" W. Van Tries. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.