Judy Balsters

Judy Balsters, nee Brehm, 81, of Collinsville, Ill., born Feb. 16, 1935 in New Berlin, Ill., passed away on Nov. 19, 2016 in Edwardsville, Ill. after a short illness.

Judy married Elmer Koke in 1954 and lovingly raised five children. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and great grandmother, and lifelong friend to many. She worked as an administrative assistant for many years and retired to spend time with, and care for, her mother, Esta Brehm, and her aunt "Polly".

Judy retired from Barnes Hospital. After her retirement, she went on to work with Faith in Action. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Judy also cherished the time she spent with all her friends. She loved playing cards, working in her garden, and taking day trips with her friends. She was an amazing cook.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, John Balsters, her parents William F. Brehm and Esta C. Brehm nee Wenneborg.

She is survived by her children, Marla J. and Matt Talley of Collinsville, Ill., Greg William and Ashley Koke of Marine, Ill. and Lisa M. and Gregg Bohnenstiehl of Maryville, Ill., Phillip E. and Marty Koke of Edwardsville, Ill. and Brian D. and Tina Koke of Sauget, Ill.; twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Also surviving are her brothers, David L. Brehm, Smithton, Ill. and E. Paul Brehm (Janet), New Berlin, Ill., and her first husband, Elmer F. Koke, Modoc, Ill..

Memorials may be made to: American Diabetes Association or Southern Illinois Hospice. Share a remembrance or condolence with the family through this online guest book.

Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2016 at Herr Funeral Home, Collinsville, Ill.

Funeral: Funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at the funeral home.

HERR FUNERAL HOME, Collinsville, Ill.