In loving memory of

Niklaus Aaron Judd
February 2, 1994 - November 13, 2008

Niklaus Aaron Judd, 14, died Thursday, November 13, 2008, at his home in Dakota, MN. Nik was born February 2, 1994, in LaCrosse, WI. Nik was 9th grade student at Cotter Senior High School in Winona, MN. Nik's interests included girls, raising miniature horses, his cats, music, playing video games and spending time with his many friends who will miss him dearly. Nik was a member of Cathedral of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Boy Scouts of America.
Survivors include his mother, Lisa Judd; biological father, Samuel A. (Gina) Judd and their son Dante of Ft. Bragg, NC; biological mother, Dawnn Rommes and her daughter, Natachia of LaCrosse, WI; sister, Anne (Frank) Molitor and their son, James of Winona, MN; and paternal grandparents, Ira and Leona Winkler of Roswell, NM. He was preceded in death by his adopted father, Robert Judd and his maternal grandparents.
A Funeral Mass to celebrate Nik's life will be offered on Tuesday, November 18, 2008, at 11:00am at Cathedral of Sacred Heart Catholic Church with the Reverend Richard Colletti officiating. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Winona, MN. Friends may call at Cathedral of Sacred Heart on Monday from 4-8:00pm where there will be a service of remembrance and time of sharing at 7:30pm. Friends may also call one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be directed to the Cotter High School library.
Please share a memory of Nik with the family, sign his online guestbook or view his video tribute when it becomes available online at: www.hofffuneral.com



Tribute video can be found at: http://videos.lifetributes.com/39821

Tributes

judi winkler wrote on Dec 12, 2008:

"he will be miss in the hearts of all god bless you in your time of need"

Kathy Huston wrote on Nov 24, 2008:

"Lisa, I have known Tammy for 28 years! And have gotten to know you and your whole family from her. When we stopped at your house it was easy to see that it is always an open and welcoming place to everyone. I am sure that Nik knew everyday how much he was loved by the whole family. My heart aches for everyone's loss. Sometimes we don't know how many lives someone has touched until they are gone. I sit now at my desk and morn your loss. God Bless "

Roxanne Borkowski wrote on Nov 23, 2008:

"Lisa, Sam, Annie and James: What a beautiful tribute to Nik. Brought back a lot of memories. I think of you often and hope the Lord's comforts you in this time. Love, Roxanne,Doug and Derek Borkowski"

Edith Whitmore wrote on Nov 22, 2008:

"Lisa, I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Nick when he was a little boy as your Mother Pat Hall was one of my best friends.I saw him many times at her house in Green Terrace Ive never been through the loss of a child but i know it has to hurt terrible. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ."

Linda and Bobby Brown wrote on Nov 20, 2008:

"Lisa, My heart breaks for you and your family. I never met Nik but through the video tribute, I could clearly see that his heart was so big and offered so much love to anyone who touched his life. He clearly had a compassion and love for animals. He's just like his mom. I can't imagine the sadness and great loss that you must be feeling. You've gone through so much this past year. Just know that you are loved and surrounded by many people who care. My prayer is that you will cling to your memories of Nik and all of the days you shared. Reach out to those who care so deeply for you and your family. Let us hold you, listen to you and love you. God's grace will carry you. Just lean on Him. All our love!"

Barb Ramer wrote on Nov 19, 2008:

"Dear Lisa, As Tracy's mom, I know the pain of losing a child. I do not know the pain of losing Nik as I did not know Nik, but I believe the loss of any child is (and has to be) the most devasting thing that can happen to any mother. I will always mourn the loss of my daughter (although it is true as Tammie Becher mentions in her tribute above) time lessens the pain. There definitely was a point at which I could smile when I looked at Tracy's picture. In fact, I have the prom picture that I believe you took with the three couples acting silly (in my office). On another note, every so often I would run into Robert. He always spoke about Nik. Sometimes how Sam was doing. You have my deepest sympathy Lisa. I know of no greater pain then the loss of one's child and I would not wish this pain on anyone. Please extend my sympathy to Sam. Barb Ramer"

Marnie wrote on Nov 19, 2008:

"Dear Lisa, You know how sorry I am for your loss, it's just hard to understand these kind of things. But Nik is their, he is with you and your family, I felt his presence right their, on the farm today. I'm just so sure that he was with you. If you need any thing at all, just call, we will always be their for you. Hugs to you and your whole family."

Gramma Judd wrote on Nov 18, 2008:

""Goodby Nik. You are with your Pa and Grampa Judd Now, and one day we will meet again. My heartfelt sympathy to Lisa, Anne, and Sam. You know I'm here, and you know we will all see Nik again. Just don't make it right away. Gramma Judd""

Donna Bova wrote on Nov 18, 2008:

"Words are terribly inadequate during a time of such sorrow. I sincerely hope that the knowledge that hundreds of your LB friends are with you in spirit and are praying for both strength and peace for Nik's family and loved ones."

barb (wangen) laganiere wrote on Nov 18, 2008:

"To all of nik's family, i would like to say how very sorry i am. It is hard to lose a loved one at any age, but so much more difficult when they are young. My very deepest sympathy to all of nik's family and friends. I lived next door to lisa years ago in lanesboro, and i remember lisa as being a sweet, wonderful person, and i'm sure her son was the same. "

Laura, Steve, Mia and Zac Undem wrote on Nov 18, 2008:

"Lisa, our love and prayers go out to you and your entire family. You are in our thoughts. Soar high, dear Nik, soar high...."

Angie Berdeski Gracelands Minis wrote on Nov 18, 2008:

"May God hold you all in his arms and ease your pain. I am so sorry for this loss."

Marty Garrison wrote on Nov 18, 2008:

"Dear Lisa and Family What a beautiful tribute to such a beautiful child. It was so heartbreaking for me to watch it but it showed that Nic was so loved and had a happy life. You know I am here for you today and all days to call upon me at any time day or night. Keep your family and friends close. Another teen angel taken from this world..........I don't understand it. Much Love, Marty "

Kiimberly Grosskopf wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"I only met Niklaus once, and in that moment I saw the heart that you have all talked about. I am thankful for that moment!! I can not imagine what family and friends are going through with the loss of Nik. My heart goes out to each and every one of you!!"

Stephanie (Crowhurst) Tompkins wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"Lisa, Sam & Annie: I am so sorry for your great loss. I remember Leona & Ira sharing pictures as Sam & Annie grew up and then as Nik came along. I feel as though I know you all so well even though my personal meeting of Robert & Lisa and family were a long time ago in Roswell when you would visit. I know there are those there to help you grieve and pray with you. I want you to know you have been in our thoughts and prayers since we heard the news. God will take care of you and help you at this time of hurt and loss. God is truely amazing in our hour of need."

Charlene Robinson wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"Lisa, My heart goes out to you and the rest of your family as well as the many friends who knew and loved Nik. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. May your memories comfort you in the weeks and months to come. God bless you, my friend. Charlene (from L'ilbeginnings)"

Rebecca Shepherd wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"I have only met Nik a few times and he always seemed to have a smile on his face. The memory of him that sticks out in my head is when I went to go pick up Sam from his parents house before they moved to Dakota. Nik had to be around the age of 8 or 9 and he ran up with this grin from ear to ear and he asked if I would like to try one of his jellybeans. So I took one and he let out the biggest gut busting laugh I have ever heard. Needless to say he got me with the jellybean ( Harry Potter, earwax flavor) one of the most discuting things I have ever tasted. I guess he had gotten to everyone else and I was the new face that had no clue. With this memory of mine I want to leave with you I still, to this day, bring that story up when similar conversations arise, and I will continue to do so. My heart goes out to Nik's family and friends. I am deeply sorry for the loss."

David Hall wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"I'm gonna' miss little buddy. Uncle Dave."

Bonnie Fogg wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine what you must be going thru. Hugs and prayers, Bonnie Fogg"

Tammie Becher wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know and feel your pain. My daughter Britney was killed in a car accident last February at 17 years old. I know your pain right now almost seems unbearable, but the pain will become less. I feel for any parent who has lost their child. There doesn't seem to be anything in the world that could possibly hurt more. Please be sure to let your friends and family help you through this. They will suffer as well, but I find they feel better if they are able to help you in any way. Be good to yourself and don't forget the others in your life that need you to take care of yourself. Its amazing how strong we can be. Treasure those happy moments you spent with Nik. No one can ever take those away from you. Take Care and God Bless... Tammie Becher"

Joni Hohensee-Burbach wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"Dear Family of Nik's, Words at a time like this seem so meaningless. Even though I did not know Nik my heart breaks with yours. To lose a child just seems like the most unfair thing in the whole world. I did not know Nik but my children attended Cotter with him. I just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope the you will find comfort in time in all the beautiful memories that you have of your time with Nik. You sound like a very special family. I heard how hard it was for Nik when he lost his dad last December. Find some comfort in knowing that they have now been reunited and you will all be together again someday. Take care of yourself. God Bless, Joni Hohensee-Burbach"

Sharon F. Schultz wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"There are no words, Lisa, that will make this nightmare go away. The Judd family has endured so much during the last 15 months. To say I understand your pain and frustration is the truth, although my journey was not exactly the same as yours. I have no siblings or children. First my father passed away. Thirty days later my husband died. A couple months after that my mother passed. I didn't feel like I would ever be whole again. These losses happened in 1998-1999 and it took until 2005 before my life returned to a joyous place. Your life will too, my friend. Be patient and look for those parts of your life for which you have genuine gratitude. There will be many."

Lori Standeven wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"My deepest condolences. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. Lori (Reignmaker) from lil beginnings"

Nicole Hall wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"I remember when i was little my dad and i would go up and visit them and nik would play dolls with me I'll miss you :("

Lewella Tembreull - Area VI AMHR National Director wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

" My deepest condolences go out to Lisa and family during this very difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Lewella (from LilBeginnings)"

Peggy & Melanie Crowhurst & Linda Bard wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"Our hearts go out to you during this time of sorrow. Ira and Leona would always share pictures that you would send to them and we felt a part of the family. We know you are hurting and Nik will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with you and your family."

Melody Rommes wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"I would like to say I had the great pleasure of a dinner with Nik and Natasha What a wonderful young man, so happy and quite the character. Iwould like to offer my deepest sympathy to all who knew and love Nik. May God be with you and help to ease your pain. God Bless"

Corinne Ermis wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"Lisa, and Family, I cannot imagine what you are going thru. When Donna emailed me I just didnt know what to say. There just are no words. I know how deep you are hurting right now, but you have some wonderful and beautiful memories to get you thru the next few weeks, and as time go on those memories will become so cherished. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Your going to have a hard time in the next few weeks, so please let all you friends be there for you. God bless you, Corinne, MeadowRIdge Miniatures/Lil Beginnings "

Cheryl Wilma wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"Dear Lisa and Family, Nik was a great friend to others. He will really be missed. Just know that he will be in God's hands now. He will be with Robert in Heaven. He brought a lot of joy to others and now he will be at peace. I pray that you and your family will be taken care of now. God be with you, Mrs. Cheryl Wilma"

Eric Thill wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"As a fellow longtime scout of Nik's, I hold great honor to say what a great young man Nik was. Throughout scouting, I was able to help lead Nik and fellow other scouts through their first summer camp and Camp Philips in Haugen,WI. Many great times were shared, and Nik will always be missed, by not only me, but by many many people. It is unfortunate that I now live so far away due to college, but I will be with Nik and his entire family through spirit in the days and weeks to come. God bless you all."

Tiffani, Jason, Robbie and Bryce Fouks wrote on Nov 17, 2008:

"There are no words... We can not even begin to fathom what you're going through right now. We are always here for you if you need us... We will all miss Nik and his humor! Hugs dear friend! We love you!"

Heidi Logman wrote on Nov 16, 2008:

"Lisa - I can not say I understand what you are going through as I have not lost a child but I will be there for you whenever you need someone. We are miles apart but we are just a phone call away. I am so sorry for you loss. Nik was a wonderful young man. He loved you so much which was very evident when I would call and he would talk to you in the background. He wanted people to know he was there and taking care of you. I found this poem - It made me think about how Nk. He watched over in life and will continue even now. - I miss you too - Mommy please don't be sad, I miss you so much too. It's beautiful here, but I worry a lot about you. I sleep with angels watching me... there is only love up here. I am never lonely or afraid because God is so very near. I walk with Jesus every day, He is very kind and loving. Don't worry Mom, He holds my hand when we cross a golden street. I never cry or hurt myself, I see Grandpa every day. I play and laugh and sing a lot and I hear you when you pray. Please Mommy, don't be mad at God, you see He loves me too. And even though you are not with me, I am really still with you. Author Unknown Know we are here for you."

rebecca buck wrote on Nov 16, 2008:

"Lisa: Nik was like a brother to me, he was my best friend. im so sorry this happened to you, if you need to talk, you can email me any time at reunited_and_it_feels_so_good@hotmail.com when i found out this had happen to Nik i couldnt believe it. if you didnt know, we started texting eachother a little while ago and it had been forever since i talked to him, im so greatful i got to talk to him befor this happened, idk what i would of done if i hadn't. i loved Nik so much he WAS my childhood. i'll miss him sooo much we all will. much love- Becca "