Julianne Dirksen

Age 81, of Placitas, NM passed away in her home, December 25, 2012. "Judy", born in Springfield, Illinois adopted by George and Alvina Dirksen, the oldest of four children, Jim, Mary, and David (deceased). She enlisted in the U.S. Navy in September 1952 and worked as an Air Traffic Controller retiring from the Navy in 1972, after which she worked for NAS Alameda until moving to Placitas in 1990. Judy was a true patriot taking every opportunity to honor those who also served in the military. She loved all animals, especially doting on her dogs over the years, including helping to care for the animals of friends. She volunteered for the St. Vincent de Paul Society and other charitable organizations close to her heart. Judy is survived by her brother, Jim Dirksen Sr.; her sister, Mary Martin Flynn; her sister-in-law, Jane Dirksen; and her many nieces and nephews, especially Jimmy (Carri, and Reid); and her lifelong friend, Fran Stephens and her daughters, Lori Slaybaugh, Juli Stephens and especially Kelli Hermanns her "adopted niece" and her family. "Perhaps my time seemed all to brief, don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now. He set me free." Cremation has taken place. A Rosary will be recited Saturday, January 12, 2013, 9:00 a.m., followed by the eulogy, and Mass will be celebrated at 10:15 a.m., at the San Antonio Mission in Placitas. Family and friends that wish to make donations in lieu of flowers may send memorial contributions to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 281 N Camino Del Pueblo, Bernalillo, NM 87004.