Judy Lynn Rustad

Judy Lynn Rustad, a compassionate healer, devoted grandmother, and wild-hearted nature lover, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on October 13, 1953, Judy lived a life marked by authenticity, courage, and care. A devoted nurse by profession, she carried a deep sense of empathy into everything she did—from nursing to her family, and beyond.

She is survived by her beloved life partner, Bill Papenfuss; her two children, Jason Papenfuss and Stephanie Fuchsel (Chris Fuchsel); and her cherished grandchildren, Alivia and Caden Fuchsel. She is also remembered by her sister, Anita Laking (Steve Laking), as well as nephews, cousins, friends, former patients, and kindred spirits she encountered on her journey.

In her later years, Judy transformed her own personal struggles into a source of strength and compassion. She devoted herself to helping raise her grandchildren, offering them a steady presence full of warmth, wisdom, and laughter. She volunteered with sheltered women, sharing both laughter and hard truths, and opened her heart and home to rescue animals who had nowhere else to go.

Judy found joy in those things that grounded her: tending her gardens, exploring the desert’s quiet beauty, telling stories that blended mischief and magic, and sitting in the presence of animals and wild places. She was a trickster, a mystic, and a fierce believer in living honestly—sometimes to a fault, but always with integrity.

Those who knew her will remember her directness, her dry wit, and the way she could see through pretense with a glance. But more than anything, they will remember her unshakable love—for her family, for the wounded and the wild, and for a life lived deeply on her own terms.

The family will be holding a private memorial service and in lieu of flowers, suggests donations to a local animal rescue or women’s shelter, in honor of Judy’s lifelong commitment to helping those most in need.