Judith Rae Herbst, 88, Park Falls

Judith Rae Herbst, age 88, of Park Falls, passed away peacefully at her home on September 18, 2025, with her family by her side.

Judith was born on May 18, 1937, in Park Falls, the daughter of Charles and Nina (Thiele) Cooley. On June 2, 1956, she married the love of her life, Stephen Herbst, in Park Falls. Together they raised their family and shared a lifetime of love until Stephen’s passing.

Judith was a hardworking and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She worked for over 40 years as a winder at St. Croix Rods. Beyond her career, she was known for her caring nature and her dedication to her family. She especially cherished time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Judith enjoyed camping, snowmobiling, and the outdoors. She loved fishing and cheering on Wisconsin sports teams. Her family will remember her as a strong, generous, and loving woman whose legacy lives on through those she loved.

She is survived by her two children: Dan Herbst of Park Falls and Karen (Jerry) Herbst of Glidden; six grandchildren: Kristin (Ben), Rachael (Eric), Kendra (Kelly), Jacob (Paige), Allan, and Amy; and twelve great-grandchildren: Trevor, Kendell, Jaylynn, Wyatt, Jamie, Autumn, Kennedy, August, Kassidy, Rayce, Rayya, Kyle, and by many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, grandson Jonathan Herbst, two brothers; Richard and Gary “Butch” Cooley, and sister Donna Cooley.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Friday October 3, 2025, at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Park Falls.  Pastor Emerson Coy will officiate.  Burial will follow at Nola Cemetery in Park Falls.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025 from 10:00am until the hour of the service, at the church.

Birch Street Funeral Service is assisting the family.