In Memory
Judith Ann (Lidecker) Edelman
October 31, 1943 - April 7, 2025
Judith Ann Edelman, 81, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born on October 31, 1943, in South Bend, Indiana, to Lowell and Elsie (Kitchen) Lidecker, Judith was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who lived a life full of love, generosity, and selflessness.
Judith’s 50-year marriage to Daniel Edelman was the cornerstone of her life. Together, they shared a deep love, creating a family built on respect, affection, and unwavering support. Daniel passed away on November 7, 2012, and although life was never quite the same without him, Judith continued to embody the qualities of warmth and resilience that defined her marriage. Her love for him remained a central part of who she was, and her memories of their life together brought her comfort.
She was a member of The Order of the Eastern Star in South Bend. Judith was known for her generosity and kindness. She was also a dedicated member of the South Bend City Church, where her faith and her commitment to helping others shone through. Judith was a woman with a servant's heart, always looking for ways to lift others up, and she gave freely of her time, love, and support to her community.
One of Judith’s greatest joys in life was her love for animals. She found comfort and companionship in her two dogs and a cat, whom she adored. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her family, and she always had a special place in her heart for those in need, whether human or animal. She was passionate about animal welfare and regularly donated to causes that supported abandoned and homeless pets.
Judith had a special fondness for the casino, where she spent many enjoyable hours with friends and family. Her fun-loving nature and adventurous spirit were infectious, and she was always up for an afternoon of excitement and laughter.
Music was another of Judith’s passions. From musicals to blues to her love for ABBA, music brought joy and energy into her life. She was known for her infectious enthusiasm when a good song came on, and her love for music was something she shared with her family, often introducing her children and grandchildren to her favorite tunes. A lover of the arts, Judith enjoyed the theater, movies, and music of all kinds. Her house was always filled with melodies that reflected her joyous personality.
At the heart of Judith’s life was her deep love for her family. She was a mother who could not have been a better friend. Her children—Scott (Pam), Steve (Darlene) and Tref, were the center of her world. Judith’s devotion to them knew no bounds, and she took great pride in being there for every important moment in their lives. Whether it was driving Steve to his eye appointments, helping with shopping, or simply sharing a quiet moment together, Judith’s presence was constant, comforting, and full of love. Her love and devotion extended beyond her children, and she was equally proud of her grandchildren: Brandon Edelman, Bret Edelman, Bryant Edelman, Heather Edelman, David (Cheyenne) Chupp, Ryan (Vex) Chupp, and Mark (Missy) Taylor, as well as her great-grandchildren: Ethan, Ahren, Braelon, Charity, Natalia, Alexis (Benny) Cabrerra and Donnie Taylor.
Judith’s family and friends will forever remember her for her ability to make everyone feel like they belonged, for her warmth and hospitality, and for the unconditional love she gave.
She was the kind of person who made those around her feel seen, heard, and cherished. Judith could always be counted on for a comforting word, a reassuring hug, and a friendly ear. She had a way of making the ordinary extraordinary, and her positive attitude was contagious to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Judith Ann Edelman will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family and friends will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have experienced her warmth and generosity. Her memory will forever be a blessing to all who were touched by her remarkable life.
Judith was preceded in death by her parents, Lowell and Elsie Lidecker, and her beloved husband of 50 years, Daniel Edelman, her brother, Lowell, Jr. and sister, Doris. She is survived by her sister Margaret Lidecker.
A family gathering at the grave will take place at 3pm where the family will meet at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Hwy., Osceola, IN 46561. A celebration of Judith’s life will be held at Riverside Bible Church 600 Myrtle Street Elkhart, IN, 46514 at 4pm. The family invites all who knew and loved her to come together to honor her memory and share stories of the beautiful life she led.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Judith’s honor to Pet Refuge, Inc., 4626 S Burnett Dr, South Bend, IN 46614, or to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.
To leave a message for the family please go to https://www.chapelhillmemorial.com/
4/14/2025 djb
George H. Winkelmann (1961)
Judith and I were not friends in high school, but I remember her. I am saddened by her passing, but so, so happy for those that knew her and shared in her wonderful love of life and family. What a blessing it must have been to have known her and enjoyed her enthusiasm for life. I'm certain there will be many tears through the sharing of memories and the loss of her presence. I pray family and friends will enjoy much joy and laughter as they remember her full, full life. Another Eagle has flown into the skies, as the hallowed halls of JAHS has one less set of footsteps.