James A. Judge

James A. Judge, aged 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on April 23, 2024, in Hastings. James was born in Minneapolis, MN to Martin and Eleanor (Sherry) Judge. He grew up on “Swede Hill” as the eldest of 5 boys. Among his many accomplishments, Jim held the distinction of being the youngest Eagle Scout at the time he took the test. He graduated from Cretin High in 1959 and later attended St. John's University. On July 6, 1963, he married his beloved wife, Beverly Kochendorfer. Together, they were blessed with six children: Jeanne, Michael, Laura, David, John, and Charlie.

Jim was the proud owner and operator of Judge Electric from 1964 to 2006, succeeding his father and passing the legacy to the next generation, now in its third generation. A dedicated family man, he instilled values of hard work, integrity, and love in his children while working alongside them in the family business.

Beverly, who preceded Jim in death 29 years ago, has now been reunited with him. He is also preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter Grace Ann, and brother John. James is survived by his children: Jeanne (Jim) Kasel, Michael (Sheri) Judge, Laura (Craig) Berthiaume, David (Lisa) Judge, John (Kimberly) Judge, and Charlie (Missy) Judge. He leaves behind 9 grandchildren, Maria, Devon, Courtney, Lilly, Matt, Nicole, Sophia, Avery, and Declan, as well as 5 great-grandchildren: Isabella, Kendall, Penny, Emery, and Leo James; siblings, Paul (Maggie) Judge, Tom (Natalie) Judge, and Dan (Alberta) Judge, James also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and many relatives and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 3, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 15th St W, Hastings, MN 55033. Visitation will be on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033, and one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church. Burial will follow the service on Friday at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.