Judith E. Colby (TuoriNiemi), of Grand Rapids and formerly of Alto, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026. Our mother and best friend, Judy, leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family, her profession, and her community.
Judy was born on April 5, 1929, in Ontonagon, Michigan, the seventh of nine children in a close-knit and proud Finnish family. Raised in Wood Spur, Michigan, during the Great Depression and World War II, she developed the resilience, determination, and work ethic that would define her life as a wife, mother, and devoted registered nurse.
After graduating from Ontonagon High School in 1947, Judy enrolled in Butterworth School of Nursing, beginning a career that became her lifelong passion. She spent nearly her entire nursing career at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, retiring at the remarkable age of 82. Throughout her decades of service, she missed only one day of work. Judy cared deeply about providing exceptional patient care, inspired many to pursue nursing, and was a steadfast mentor and advocate for the nurses she supervised as they balanced their careers and family life.
Even while working full time, Judy generously gave her time to others. She volunteered for many years as a 4-H leader and classroom mother. An accomplished knitter, she was rarely without a pair of mittens in progress, sometimes finishing the last few stitches just as the school bus arrived. Her handmade mittens became treasured Christmas gifts for family and welcome donations for local elementary school children. Judy was an extraordinary mother who valued education, encouraged lifelong learning, and possessed a wonderfully wicked sense of humor that kept those around her smiling.
Judy is lovingly remembered by her children, Brian (Wendy) Colby and Susan Hoff; her grandchildren, Keane Colby and Kristen Hoff; three great-grandchildren; her sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Rutila; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ansu and Ensi TuoriNiemi; her husband, Ralph Colby; her son-in-law, Ronald Hoff; and her siblings, Eslie Lampi, Edwin Lampi, Elma Olewinski, Edward TNiemi, William TNiemi, Robert TNiemi, and June Baukus.
Honoring Judy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private interment will be held at Bowne Center Cemetery in Alto, Michigan.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.