Judith "Judy" Marilyn Van Tol

In loving memory of Judith Marilyn Van Tol (nee Kraayenbrink) affectionately known as Judy, we celebrate a life well-lived. Born on March 25, 1943, in Hull, IA, Judy touched the hearts of all who knew her. She passed away on July 20, 2024.

Judy grew up on the family farm near Doon, IA, surrounded by the love of her parents, Henry and Johanna Kraayenbrink and older siblings, Alyda, Gerrit, Harriet, and Hank. Her unwavering faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

On December 27, 1961, Judy married Joe D. Van Tol. They started their married life in Sioux Center where their first son, Todd, was born. They moved to Sioux City, then Des Moines, where Joe E. was born. After Des Moines, they moved to Sioux Falls, then Yankton, where Dave was born. Finally, they settled in Rock Valley where Ryan was born. Joe and Judy’s nurturing spirit extended to having a foster son Lloyd, who lived with the family for several years.

While in Yankton, Judy owned a Christian bookstore, sharing her faith with others. In Rock Valley, she worked as a clerk at Valley Pharmacy and later became the Heritage Club Director at Peoples Bank. In all of this, being a homemaker was her primary passion and joy.

Judy’s heart overflowed with love for her family. She cherished moments spent with her sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren. Todd (Julie), Joe (Kari), Dave (Gayle), and Ryan (Melanie) were her pride and joy. Grandchildren Leah, Erin, April, Tairin, Amanda, Clay, Dane, Isaac, and great-grandchild Olivia Jude held a special place in her heart.

Judy’s spirit and love for life remained strong until cancer challenged her near the end. Her legacy lives on through the love she shared, the faith she lived out, the memories she created, and the impact she had on those around her.

Family will be present at a visitation on Monday, July 22nd from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Trinity Christian Reformed Church in Rock Valley, IA. A public Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, July 23rd at 11:00 a.m. also at Trinity Christian Reformed Church with Rev. Henry Lengkeek and Rev. Dan DeGroot officiating. Private family committal will be prior to the service at Valley View Cemetery. The Memorial Service can be viewed at https://vimeo.com/event/4077519. The Porter Funeral Home is assisting the family. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope Haven Flood Relief or Rock Valley Christian School Flood Relief.

May Judy’s memory continue to inspire kindness, faith, and love.

Hope Haven 1800 19th Street Rock Valley, Iowa 51247

Rock Valley Christian School 1405 17th Street Rock Valley, Iowa 51247