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News


510 S. Farwell St., Eau Claire WI 54701 • 715.835.3734 Map to the Cathedral

News

Chippewa Valley Street Ministry Journal
December 212025
 
The winter solstice is here, and the darkness has shrouded us. The daylight will be longer starting tomorrow, and some say with the light, hope comes, as well: hope for better conditions for our brothers and sisters who are unhoused; hope for expanded services; hope for housing. Hope is a powerful tool that we've talked about before. Hope fuels motivation and powers all of us to strive towards a goal, and gives us a path to happiness. Hope is essential for all of us.
 
This man left our table after receiving food and some warm clothes.
 
Some of the people we serve spend the majority of their time alone. This is a personal choice that is driven by a multitude of reasons, including previous traumas, mental illness, safety, lack of trust, etc. One of our friends, in particular, does not feel accepted by his peers and spends most days alone. When he comes to visit, he often stays for an extended period of time and chats with us. He often doesn't need any material items; he needs the social contact and support we offer.  While many of us are running around this year excited about Christmas preparations and seeing family, those who are unhoused may have one another, or they may be alone. Please keep them in your hearts during this holiday season. 
 
Visitors and volunteers in conversation. 
 
Many of our visitors come to us needing items to protect them from the cold. Thanks to you, we've been able to provide coats, hats, gloves, sweatpants, and hand warmers without any delay. We've been able to provide snow pants/bibs, boots, and thick winter socks, as well.  We're 100% reliant on your support to continue our work. We'll send out an updated needs list in a few days; you can always refer back to the previous list or contact us with questions.  
 
Blessing to All,
 
CVSM STAFF

Judith M (Erickson) Steffen

February 1, 2935 ~ December 11, 2025

Judith "Judy" M. Steffen, age 90, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, died peacefully on Thursday, December 11th at the Beehive Memory Care surrounded by her family. She was born on February 1st, 1935 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin to Helen (Sorenson) and Orville Erickson. She graduated from Eau Claire Senior High School in 1953 and married her husband and love of her life, Gordon Steffen on April 8th, 1955. They were happily married for over 58 years before Gordon's death in 2013. Judith worked as a ward secretary at Sacred Heart hospital for over 25 years, a profession that truly amplified her work ethic and desire to help others.

Throughout her life, Judith managed to connect, captivate, and support any and all people she came into contact with. She had a giving heart and made it a priority to socialize and take part in a variety of volunteer opportunities as well as organizations. She participated in an antique club, two card clubs, Republican Women, was a lifelong member and contributor at Christ Church Cathedral, and maintained strong friendships with women all across Eau Claire. Judith had an immense adoration for her church and was passionate about her faith, it was her other love. She was an active member, served on the alter guild, and created a family at Christ Church Cathedral. Judith was loved by all she came in contact with due to her witty humour and straightforward nature. She was a loving, committed mother as well as an amazing grandmother who always showed up to support family events as well as provide support in day to day life, no matter when she was needed. She was a romantic at heart and loved shopping, the arts, film, music, home design, and had an affinity for growing plants; even the most difficult to maintain. Judith was a shining example of what it meant to see the beauty of everything in life.

Judith is survived by her four children, Debbie (Jeff) Koppa, Mark (Kathy) Steffen, Jeff (Mary) Steffen and Ann (Keith) Hanson; grandchildren, Eric (Kirstin) Koppa, Darren Koppa, Jonathan (Jamie) Koppa, Misty (Tory) Freed, Matthew (Amanda) Steffen, Derek (Jennifer) Steffen, Brent (Steph) Steffen, Kristina (George) Chahine and Olivia (Derek) Mroczenski; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Judith is preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Steffen; parents, Helen (Sorenson) and Orville Erickson; sister, Diane Mercier and brother, David Erickson.

Funeral Services will be held at 11am Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Christ Church Cathedral, 510 S. Farwell Street, Eau Claire, WI with The Very Reverend Tyler Richards officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will be at Lakeview Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Judith's life. Online condolences may be shared at www.lenmarkfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Church Cathedral in Eau Claire or donors preferred charity.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Beehive Memory Care and St. Croix Hospice.