News Summary
Judith L. Karst, a renowned journalist and beloved mother, passed away unexpectedly at 80 in Ludington, Michigan. She is remembered for her significant contributions to journalism, her love for animals, and her devotion to her family. With a dynamic career in both journalism and real estate, Judith’s passion for storytelling and adventure deepened her connection to the community. A visitation and Requiem Mass are scheduled for her final arrangements.
Ludington, Michigan
Judith L. Karst, an acclaimed journalist and devoted mother, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of May 9, 2025, in Ludington, Michigan. She was 80 years old. Karst was well-known for her remarkable contributions to the field of journalism, her passion for animals, and her deep commitment to her family.
Born on September 29, 1944, in Mishawaka, Indiana, Judith spent her early childhood in Detroit before moving back to Mishawaka. She attended local schools, including Honor Elementary School, while helping her family manage a seasonal resort. After graduating high school, she initially pursued a pre-medicine degree at Indiana University but later switched her focus to journalism. Judith graduated with a degree in journalism and moved to New York City for a position at Vogue magazine. However, she opted for a role at the South Bend Tribune instead, where her journalism career began to flourish.
During her time at the South Bend Tribune, Judith met Frederick Karst at a social gathering, leading to their marriage on September 20, 1969. Together, they had four sons: George L. Karst of Michigan City, Edward F. Karst of Los Angeles, James P. Karst of New Orleans, and David G. Karst of Ludington. Judith was also a proud grandmother to three grandsons and two granddaughters.
Career and Achievements
Judith had a successful career that spanned 25 years, during which she worked as a journalist, author, and Realtor. From 1989 to 1998, she and Frederick co-owned the Culver Citizen newspaper. Over her career, Judith garnered numerous accolades, including recognition from the Associated Press and the Women’s Press Club, reflecting her dedication to quality journalism.
She produced a wide range of work, from articles and books to plays, often focused on themes such as animals, travel, and civil rights. Notable pieces included explorations of tigers, the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and life in a leper colony on Molokai. In addition, she wrote a food column for the newspaper, showcasing her lifelong passion for cooking.
Personal Legacy
Judith’s early experiences growing up at her family’s resort in Michigan fostered a spirit of adventure and a love for the outdoors. A dedicated mother, her primary focus was raising her four sons, a role she cherished deeply. She is remembered not only for her professional achievements but also for her warm, nurturing presence in her family’s life.
Judith was an active member of the Episcopalian Church and participated in various congregations, including St James Cathedral in South Bend, St Paul’s Episcopal Church in Laporte, and St Thomas Episcopal Church in Plymouth. Her fondness for animals, particularly dogs, was evident in her household, where she owned both a black Labrador retriever and a yellow Labrador named Billy the Kid. Additionally, her love for travel saw her visiting numerous destinations, from New Zealand and Bora Bora to Alaska and various spots in Europe.
Final Arrangements
Judith was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Frederick, who passed away in 2022 after 52 years of marriage. A visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 4-7 pm at the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home in Plymouth, Indiana. A Requiem Mass is scheduled for 4:00 pm on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. James in South Bend, Indiana, with burial to follow on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois.
The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Marshall County Humane Society or the Central Mine M.E. Methodist Church. Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home is handling arrangements, and condolences can be left for the family on their website.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- InkFreeNews: Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home
- Wikipedia: Ludington, Michigan
- InkFreeNews: Judith Karst
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Journalism
- InkFreeNews: Journalism Awards
