Judy Elaine Busenitz, 67, of Newton, died Wednesday (Aug. 19, 2009) at Harry Hynes Hospice in Wichita.

Judy was born on March 17, 1942, in Newton, the daughter of Emil and Millicent Dart Claassen. They preceded her in death.

She married Donald Busenitz on Oct. 20, 1963, in Newton and became a hard-working farm wife for 46 years.

Judy was young at heart and, with a twinkle in her eye, she captured the hearts of many friends of all ages. Schoolchildren took many trips to the Busenitz farm and, sometimes, Judy would take the animals to the schools. For 30 years, Judy faithfully taught Newton Weekday Bible School. She also shared her faith and goodness with children at Newton Bible Church as a Sunday school teacher and Awana leader. She loved kids.

For 40 years, she provided leadership to Harvey County 4-H families. She was a lifetime member of 4-H. Judy enjoyed canning and baking for the county and state fairs; planning and preparing for the fair brought her great joy.

Donating blood was an important part of her life; Judy was a 12-gallon donor. The Newton Kansan recognized Judy as “Woman of the Year in Church & Religion.” She was a giving and kind person. Everyone really liked Judy.

Survivors include her husband, Donald, of the home; daughter, Emily Busenitz; son, Edward Busenitz; two sisters, Joan Wulf, and Bev Hunter and her husband, Gary, all of Newton.

Friends may call from 1 to 9 p.m. Monday at Broadway Colonial Funeral Home in Newton, with the family greeting friends from 6 to 8 p.m.

Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton. A Celebration of Judy’s life will follow at 11 a.m. at Newton Bible Church.

A memorial has been established with Newton Weekday Bible School and the Harvey County 4-H Development Fund. Contributions may be sent to Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, 120 E. Broadway, Newton, KS 67114.