Judy Quest

Born on October 9, 1948 in Omaha, NE. Passed on February 9, 2023 in Omaha, NE. Preceded in death by parents William and Helen Enenbach, cousin Fred Enenbach and dear friend Fr. Tom O’Neill.

Judy was a lifelong educator and counselor, who spent most of her career inspiring students at Duchesne Academy to realize their dreams. She was passionate about the goals of the Sacred Heart and lived its mission for intellectual values and social justice to its fullest. The mentors, classmates, colleagues and students that she built relationships with built the foundation of her life. A true ‘daughter of the 60’s’, she loved nature and was politically active until the very end. As a young mother, she translated the challenge of having a daughter with Cerebral Palsy to a job working for the State of Nebraska during the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990. She worked in living rooms, conference rooms, and legislative chambers, always telling her stories in personal, yet innovative ways.

In some of the most challenging years of her life, Judy pursued a lifelong goal of becoming a professional clown. ‘Dear Heart’ brought joy to people of all ages, abilities, and socioeconomic standing for over 40 years. Judy brought a counselor’s spirit to clowning and educated generations of new clowns. Dear Heart was also a ‘boss clown’, holding positions like President of Clowns of America International and winning international awards such as ‘Clown of the Year’ and ‘Lifetime Achievement’.

Judy was an extraordinary mother and grandmother and shared not only her values and passions with her children, but supported them regardless of the direction of their journeys. Her battle with breast cancer lasted over 10 years, thanks to the amazing guidance of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, in particular, Dr. Kenneth Cowan and Dr. Melissa Teply.

Judy is survived by husband Tom Quest; brother Mark Enenbach and sister Carol Haller; children Daniel (wife Laura), Melanie and Laura Quest (husband AJ Glueckert); grandchildren Lilly and Maggie Quest, and Helene and Eva Glueckert; many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Duchesne Academy. The family requests attendees of both services wear bright colors (no black).

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Monday, February 27th, visitation from 5pm, service at 7pm, St. Cecilia Cathedral, 701 N 40th Street, Omaha, NE

FUNERAL SERVICE: Tuesday, February 28th at 11:15am. St. Cecilia Cathedral, 701 N 40th Street, Omaha, NE