Judson ("Judd") Bruce Blakeman

Always be kind, laugh hard, and love harder. -- Judd

Obituary

Judd was born on December 6, 1972, and passed away on November 20, 2024, which was way too soon. He was a loving son to Sue and Gordon Blakeman, as well as a loving brother, uncle and friend. However, Judd’s greatest joy was his twin daughters. He smiled often but his smile shone brightest while he was with the two of them.

Many condolences received by Judd’s family have mentioned his laugh as well as his bright smile. This laugh was authentic, contagious, and heartwarming. Judd was a true believer in the power of positive thinking and this showed in his everyday life. His smile and laugh will forever echo in the memories of those who loved him.

Sports were a central part of Judd’s life—as a player, coach, and fan. A natural athlete, he excelled in every sport he pursued, but football was his lifelong passion.

Judd graduated from Cherry Creek High School in 1991, where he co-captained the 1990 football team to a 6A State title and was named MVP of the Defense. He was also a Dr. Pepper MVP award winner for football that season. After high school, Judd attended Metro State, pursuing a degree in physical education and sports medicine.

Judd's philosophy on coaching is included on this page under "Fundamentals of Coaching" below. Copy the link and paste it into your browser if you are unable to click on it.

His coaching career began in the Arapahoe Youth League, where he coached Eagles football in 1997 and 1998. He then joined the football staff at Cherry Creek, coaching for ten years, followed by coaching the freshman team at Grandview High School. Judd understood the impact his coaching had on his players' lives off the field as well as on it and took that responsibility seriously. He was a true mentor and positive role model to many. 

Along those lines, another of Judd’s gifts was his ability to make everyone feel accepted for who they were, never pressuring them to be anyone other than their authentic selves. His kindness, inclusiveness, and non-judgmental nature endeared him to everyone he met. He encouraged others to embrace their true selves and accepted them unconditionally.

Beyond his caring, thoughtful, and respectful nature, Judd loved animals and always shared his home with at least two dogs and a cat.

He cherished time spent with family and friends at the family mountain cabin, where he enjoyed exploring, fishing, and skiing.

A music lover, Judd traveled the country with friends to attend concerts, particularly enjoying Pearl Jam. He last saw them at Wrigley Field in September.

At age 21, Judd began experiencing seizures and was diagnosed with epilepsy. Though he faced this challenge for the remainder of his life, he accepted it with optimism and without complaint. His glass was always half full, never half empty. Even when struggling, Judd dedicated himself to uplifting others.

We will forever miss him but are grateful for the time we had with Judd and the joy he brought to our lives. Rest in peace, dear Judd, and know your laugh will live on in our hearts until we "meet you on the other side."

For those wishing to honor Judd, contributions may be made to a fund set up for his daughters via the Donate section of this page.

Fundamentals of Coaching 

Judd Blakeman: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13zfDPvDXw3uX6EiKlAFJopbrGa7F89aBfxGkNe8MxnM/edit?usp=sharing

Gallery

Memory wall

April 19, 2025

I grew up with Judd from Kindergarten on through college. Although life took us separate ways & we didn't keep in touch much after that, it was just like always when we'd see each other. He was always the kind, thoughtful, quiet one yet his smile & laugh lit up the space.
I know his daughters meant the world to him. My sincere condolences to all, especially his parents and his daughters, for the loss of Judd so young. May his legacy live on through them and all he touched, may he Rest In Peace with our Lord, and may all find peace in memories... until you meet again. God bless.

Robin Reyes

March 11, 2025

Judd. many memories with you. Starting out with 4th of July marches around Carter circle listening to John Phillip Sousa blasting out of a boom box and being led by Gailmarie in her Miss America outfit. After that comes the memories of many wonderful Thanksgiving dinners where we would spend time with about 25 people. There are a lot more Judd but I will stop here and say that you are missed and life is going to seem different for me not seeing that beautiful smile of yours. When you see Gailmarie please give her a kiss for me.

Gailmarie & Ron Berquist

March 8, 2025

Cousin Judd's warm, caring gentle, friendly spirit was a light of goodness and love for me.

When we visited or communicated, Judd was always so kind and gracious toward me. His accomplishments are an enduring inspiration, and it always felt so natural being part of his family.

There is always going to be a spot in my heart for Judd. It won't go away, ever.

Tom Hundley

March 2, 2025

Judd’s my cousin and loved when we got the families together. A lot of great childhood memories in Colorado and at the lake in Michigan. This last April, I visited Gordy and Sue. Judd was busy but came out his way to visit me while I was in town. Meant a lot to me and he will be greatly missed.

Vince Meconi

March 1, 2025

Judd was my best friend from the time we met in middle school. His spirit will forever be imprinted on my heart and mind. We shared so many good times doing life together and sharing our love of sports, people, and the search for deeper meaning. I will carry your legacy forward my friend!

Britt Gusmus

February 28, 2025

Judd was a significant person in my life for almost 8 years. He was always so kind, happy and willing to do anything for me. I feel blessed that we remained friends all these years. I never got to meet his daughters in person, but he told me a lot about them, and I could tell he was an incredible father. The last time I talked to Judd was on Oct. 16 when he texted me a happy birthday message, as he did every year. And in true Judd style, he ended his message saying, "Hope your family and you are happy and healthy!" You will be dearly missed, Judd. Love, Sara

Sara Goodwin (O'Hagan)

February 28, 2025

JB, you’re like a brother to me and you’ll always hold a special place in my heart. I’ll work everyday to be as kind and accepting as you were. I miss you and I love you. -Frischer

Brian Frisch

February 27, 2025

Love you little bro’.

Amy Widmann

Service

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