Judith Ann (Bares) VanKempen

Judith Ann (Bares) VanKempen, age 79, of Aitkin, Minnesota, passed away on June 2, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.  Judy was born on July 27, 1946, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Robert and Muriel Bares.

As the oldest of six children, Judy shared a close bond with her siblings and cherished her family.  Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Bob, Genevieve, and Ralph; and her former spouse, Gary VanKempen. 

Judy is survived by her loving and devoted partner of 27 years, Russ Sutherland; her siblings, Roger (Wendy) Bares and Robin Daneault; her sons, Thomas (Sarah) VanKempen, Timothy (Svetlana) VanKempen, and Terry (Katrina) VanKempen; her grandchildren, Samantha, Shelby, Violet, Isabella, Andrei, and Erik; and her great-granddaughter, Nova.  She is also survived by Russ’s children, Darren (Jane) White, Todd Sutherland, Chad (Stephanie) Sutherland, and Julie (Tate) Mills; grandchildren Lexy, Jack, Tawni, Sam, Wyatt, and Emma; and great-grandchildren, James and Elias, all of whom Judy loved as her own.  She is further survived by her beloved fur baby, Lena; many nieces, nephews, extended family members; and dear friends, including those she worked with at Graco and Paulbeck’s Market. 

Judy was known for her strength, fun-loving spirit, and humor. She enjoyed sharing laughter, making memories, and, above all, spending time with family and friends, especially during the annual “Bares Girls” weekends. A devoted Minnesota Vikings fan, Judy could often be found proudly dressed in purple on game days, cheering on her favorite team.  Judy will be forever remembered and deeply missed. 

A Celebration of Life will be held 1:00pm - Friday, June 19, 2026 at The Landing, 145 Southgate Drive, Aitkin, Minnesota. In honor of Judy’s love for the Vikings and to celebrate her vibrant spirit, guests are encouraged to wear Vikings jerseys or purple attire.  Arrangements are with Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home in Aitkin.  www.srtfuneral.com

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