Community Mourns the Loss of Judy Erika Fielder

Chapman, September 20, 2025

News Summary

Judy Erika Fielder, a cherished member of Chapman, Kansas, has passed away unexpectedly at 62. Known for her kindness and community spirit, Judy leaves behind a legacy of love among family and friends. A Celebration of Life is scheduled at Zion United Church of Christ to honor her memory.

Chapman, Kansas

Judy Erika Fielder, a beloved member of the Chapman community, passed away unexpectedly on September 16, 2025, at the age of 62. Her sudden departure has left family, friends, and neighbors mourning the loss of a kind-hearted woman known for her warmth and generosity.

Judy was born on November 30, 1962, in Huntington, New York, as the daughter of German immigrants Helmut and Waltraud “Wally” Cordier (Holle). Tragically, her father passed away in 1964, prompting Wally to relocate with Judy and her sisters, Isabel and Elizabeth (Liz), to Dwight, Kansas, to be closer to family. Later, Wally married Emory Strauss, giving Judy a brother named Michael.

Growing up on a family farm in rural Junction City, Judy developed a profound love for animals, particularly dogs. She actively participated in 4-H and contributed to daily farm chores. She graduated from Junction City High School in 1981, forming lifelong friendships and remaining involved in organizing class reunions over the years.

On August 1, 1981, Judy married Gradon “Grady” Fielder, whom she met while working at Food 4 Less. The couple journeyed through life together, making lasting memories with trips to the lake, attending racing events, and enjoying gatherings with friends and family. Their family grew as they welcomed two sons: Brent Lee in 1985 and Kasey Ryan in 1988.

The Fielder family made their home in Chapman, where they enjoyed weekends at Milford Lake and attended numerous sporting events for their sons. Their vacations included trips to NASCAR races and delightful times at Table Rock Lake. Central to their home was “The Shop,” a hub for working on race cars and hosting joyous gatherings filled with laughter. Judy was known for her exceptional hospitality, often providing cold drinks and homemade treats for guests.

Judy celebrated over 30 years of Labor Day parties at her shop, creating a cherished community tradition. Gardening was another of her passions; she tended to her gardens, which yielded ingredients for her famous salsa and zucchini bread that she prepared with care.

After a commendable 37-year career with the Department of Defense at Fort Riley, Judy retired in April 2025. Throughout her career, she forged valuable friendships. Additionally, she dedicated over two decades to fitness instruction, beginning as an aerobics teacher in 1996. Residents of Chapman fondly recalled seeing her speed-walking through town, always with a warm smile and a friendly greeting.

Family was at the heart of Judy’s life. She cherished her daughters-in-law, Lisa and Lacey, and took immense pride in her four grandchildren: Grason, Lillian, Landyn, and Wyatt. She made time for sleepovers, shopping trips, and attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, which she loved dearly.

Judy is survived by her husband of 44 years, Grady Fielder; sons Brent (Lisa) of Liberty, Missouri, and Kasey (Lacey) of Chapman; and grandchildren Grason, Lillian, Landyn, and Wyatt. She is also survived by her sisters Isabel Schmedemann of Herington, Liz Schoenberner of Georgetown, Texas, and brother Mike Strauss of Junction City, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Judy was preceded in death by her parents and in-laws, Bill and Shirley Fielder.

In remembrance, Judy is celebrated for her legacy of love, kindness, hard work, and community spirit. A Celebration of Life is set for Friday, September 26, at 11:00 a.m. at Zion United Church of Christ, with visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at “The Shop” in Chapman, where food will be served starting at 1:30 p.m. Judy had also anticipated starting volunteer work at the Geary County Food Pantry this fall. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations to local food pantries that serve Chapman and Junction City.

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