Obituary of Judith L. Anton

Judith Lynn Anton, neé McElroy, passed away on April 4, 2024.

Judy was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 1, 1938 to Donald L McElroy and Kathryn J. Patterson McElroy. Judy was the eldest sibling to Kathleen Susan McElroy, who preceded her in death, and to Donald B. (Julie) McElroy of Peoria, IL.  She was a graduate of Lindbloom High School in Chicago and went on to attend Lake Forest College where she earned a degree in science and education. Judy was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority and developed many wonderful friendships that lasted her lifetime. Following her undergrad she became a teacher in Oak Lawn, Illinois. She then moved to district 111 where she met the love of her life, Kenneth O. Anton, a fellow teacher. They were married on December 17, 1966. Judy and Ken moved to Iowa where they were educators and became parents to Catherine Anton Sandberg and Kenneth J. Anton. Judy pursued her Masters Degree at Iowa State University and became a Special Education teacher and administrator. Returning to Illinois in 1983, Judy was a special education case manager for the Winthrop Harbor School District. She then retired and focused on being an amazing grandmother to Claire, Thea, and Finn Sandberg. Judy enjoyed traveling and crafting and creating baskets and cards. She was a great host to friends and family and loved a night at the American Players Theater or Lyric Opera. She supported the local AFS Club and the family hosted many international students over the years. Judy loved spending time with family and friends whether traveling, shopping, or having lunch. She was a supportive, kind and loving person whose smile, laugh, hugs and wisdom will be missed greatly. 

Judy is survived by her husband, Kenneth Anton of Winthrop Harbor; son, Kenneth Anton of Winthrop Harbor; daughter, Catherine (Doug) Anton Sandberg; and grandchildren, Claire, Thea and Finn of Chicago; brother Donald (Julie) McElroy; nephew, Tim (Chelsea) McElroy of Wauwatosa, WI; and niece, Sara McElroy of Dunlap, IL.

Friends and family are invited to a Memorial Visitation on Sunday, April 21, 2024 from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. at the Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Road, Zion, IL.  Interment will be private for the family at Acacia Park Cemetery in Chicago.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the SEDOL Foundation (Special Education District of Lake County) www.sedolfoundation.org/donate/, 18160 Gages Lake Road, Gages Lake, IL 60030, would be appreciated.