In Memory
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Judith Ann Mary (Babarckas) Stepanek
March 9, 1943 ~ March 22, 2025 82 Years Old
Judith (Judy) Ann Mary Babarckas Stepanek passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the age of 82. Born in Michigan City, Indiana, on March 9, 1943, she spent most of her beautiful life in South Bend, Indiana, alongside her beloved husband, Michael (Mike) J. Stepanek, Jr. (1939–2010). Together, they built a loving home and raised two children, Michele (Stepanek) Teague and Patrick Stepanek.
Judy was known for her beauty, grace, and kindness. She took joy in life’s simple pleasures, including her cherished weekly “updo” with her favorite hairstylist. As she said, “The higher the hair, the closer to God!” Always polished and poised, she believed that one should be ready to welcome guests at any time. Her greatest joy, however, was her family, and she never missed an opportunity to express how proud she was of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. From heaven, she continues to love and support them.
Judy also held her friendships dear. She was a proud member of the Mother-Daughter group, an offshoot of Indian Guides, where she and a close-knit circle of women celebrated more than five decades of friendship, spanning from their daughters' kindergarten days in 1971 until her passing. She also served as an officer in the Service Guild and dedicated time to the March of Dimes, a cause close to her heart—having been a March of Dimes "Poster Child" at the age of six while bravely battling polio.
A talented hostess and decorator, Judy had a remarkable eye for design and a gift for entertaining. Whether hosting lavish parties or intimate gatherings, she curated every detail with care—each event had a theme, and every decoration was thoughtfully placed. Music was always part of the atmosphere, and she especially loved dancing around her home to The Beatles' “Love Me Do” and Tijuana Brass’ “Whipped Cream.” As the wife of a Double Domer, Notre Dame football season was a cause for celebration—her guests were often awakened on game days to the sound of the Notre Dame Fight Song echoing through the house.
Judy’s love of beauty extended to her gardens, which were twice featured in the Arts in Bloom Garden Walk presented by the South Bend Museum of Art. Her stunning landscaping showcased cascading window boxes, vintage wheelbarrow planters, and vibrant perennials, inspiring local artists to capture her botanical artistry in paintings—treasured pieces that will now be displayed in the homes of her children and grandchildren. Though she enthusiastically welcomed bees into her flourishing garden, she was ironically allergic to their sting. She loved all animals, but held a special place in her heart for her kittens, especially Tiffany who was always by her side.
Of all the holidays, Christmas was her favorite. It was understood that Christmas Eve was to be spent at Judy’s home, where she created a festive wonderland with themed trees and mantle displays. Whether it was cookie-cutter ornaments in the kitchen or a grand tree decorated with animals in the great room, her decorations were as thoughtful as they were dazzling. Christmas Eve Mass at Notre Dame, followed by a night filled with good food, love, laughter, and gift-giving, was a treasured tradition. She adored receiving thoughtful presents—cashews, puzzle books, cute outfits, and holiday decorations were always among her favorites.
Judy is survived by her loving children, Michele (Jeff) Teague and Patrick (Mindy) Stepanek; cherished grandchildren Megan (Bryce) Amberg, Ryan (Haley) Teague, Lauren Teague, Nicholas Stepanek, and Jacob Teague; and great-grandchildren Aiden Amberg, Michael Teague, and Wyatt Amberg. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike, and her parents, Antone Babarckas and Laura Owczarski Babarckas.
A private Family Service will be held at Cedar Grove Cemetery, on the University of Notre Dame campus, where Judy will be laid to rest beside her loving husband, Mike.
Her warmth, elegance, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
3/25/2025 djb
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