Judy Arbeiter was a city girl for better than half her life. Now, shes back within eight miles of where she grew up in Chanute and delighted to be involved in much of whats going on in Humboldt.
For 35 years, she and husband Elden, who died in 2001, lived in Tampa Bay, where there is one season warm or warmer; ideal for his boating and fishing interests.
Shortly after Eldens passing, Judy decided shed had enough of Florida.
I retired on July 3, 2002, and on July 4, I was on my way to Humboldt, she said. Having four seasons was one reason, but the overriding reason was to be near her son Dr. Sean McReynolds, and granddaughter Kyra. Also, she has a sister, Janice Elmore, in Fredonia.
Sean, a dentist, followed in his father Maxs footsteps, Judys first husband.
One settled in Humboldt, Judy set her focus on decorating her century-old house, including repurposing old furniture. The house, and its lawn, is Better Homes and Gardens perfect.
AFTER GRADUATING from Chanute High School, Judy enrolled at Ottawa University. Her outgoing nature and pleasant voice won her a singing role with the university jazz band.
An adventure followed. In 1959, the jazz band joined a USO show and toured military bases in the Pacific Theater Japan, Korea, Formosa, Wake Island and Guam.
With a masters degree in home economics at K-State, Judy worked in Kansas City for K.C. Power and Light while husband, Max, was in dental school. The couple later divorced.
With second husband, Elden, Judy found her way to Tampa, Fla., and took a position as a home economist with county government, looking after programs for the elderly.
I still treasure my Florida friends and travel to see them occasionally, which leads to another of Judys passions, traveling. Ive been to all 50 states, and several countries including Mexico, Ecuador including its Galapagos Islands and Canada.
Judy, now 81, doesnt foresee a less active lifestyle. Im not going to stop doing all I do until I have to.
That brings us to the most recent chapter of Judys life. She is a master gardener and enthusiastically involved in Humboldts garden club.
When not immersed in her own flower garden, Judy helps with several public ones in Humboldt.
