In Memoriam: Judy (Sagen) Close ’66

Judy (Sagen) Close ’66 died Dec. 12, 2022 at age 79. She was born in Astoria, Ore., on June 5, 1943, to Stanley Edward Sagen and Violet Mabel Kipste. Lewis and Clark Elementary was many blocks from home, and it can honestly be said that she and her siblings walked in rain, snow, sleet and only the occasional sun to get themselves to school. She later attended the newly built Astoria High School, where she would go on to graduate with honors in 1961. She spent two years at Clatsop Community College before attending Pacific University, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in history and a minor in English.

Pacific is also where she met, and later married, Roger Close ’70. Although they later divorced, they continued a loyal friendship. Together, they had two daughters, Jennifer Reinke and Amy Close. Years later, Close worked to obtain her real estate license. Her years of listing, selling, and brokering for RE/MAX Equity Group were distinguished by top sales, awards and the many wonderful friends she met along the way. 

One of the greatest joys of her life came after the birth of her grandson, Joseph Elliot Pepe, on May 3, 2009. Together, they celebrated holidays, spent many weekends and after-school days together, and had many adventures. Another great joy in her life was travel. She especially enjoyed her travels to Africa, where she met lifelong friends. Each trip elevated her perspective, transformed her spiritually, and filled her soul with deep appreciation.

Close is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Reinke (Eric Turnipseed), and Amy Close; former son-in-law, Tony Pepe; grandson, Joseph Elliot Pepe; siblings, Ginny Sagen Utti (Tom), Gerry Sagen (Sandy), Milton Sagen and Wendy Sagen Moran (Tim); and many nieces, nephews and cousins.