Judith Bickerstaff

Judith Ann Bickerstaff, of Buffalo, Minnesota, was born on November 6, 1939, in Minneapolis to Donald and Doris (Halley) Gieske. She passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on May 22, 2026, at a long-term care facility following four weeks of inpatient treatment for several age-related health conditions.

A proud graduate of Minneapolis North High School, Judith married George William “Bill” Bickerstaff on July 14, 1962. During her life, she held a variety of positions including checkout clerk, accounting clerk, and served as co-owner of the family business, Down To Bare Wood.

Judith was known for her charitable spirit and generosity, supporting organizations such as the Humane Society, American Lung Association, American Heart Association, and St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Above all, she was a devoted mother to her daughter and son.

She is survived by her daughter, Stephanie (Todd) Keasling; two grandchildren, Nicole Mayer (Sharon Kendall), and Justin (Taylor) Mayer; as well as three great-grandchildren, Emilee, Vivian, and Aurin Mayer. She also leaves behind her sister Cheryl Baldwin; brothers Lowell Carlson (Jay Joseph) Michael (Leigh Ann) Carlson, Timothy Gieske; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Judith was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Doris Gieske; brother Stephen Gieske; and her beloved husband Bill. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date to be determined.