Julie A. Sass, age 61, of rural Blair, died on Sunday, July 2, 2017 in her home, surrounded by her family.

Julie was born on January 19, 1956 in Eau Claire, WI, to Lila (Ackerson) and Lee Bates.  She graduated from Eau Claire North High School in 1974.  Julie married Joseph Sass on May 10, 1975 at Grace Lutheran Church in Eau Claire, WI.

Julie had a big smile and contagious laugh.  She enjoyed quilting, camping and reading, but most of all her grandchildren.  They brought out her biggest smiles and they loved her dearly.  Julie loved making quilts and gave many as gifts made from the heart.  She made many good friends through quilting and enjoyed the retreats they attended.  She always loved kids, and took many in, from foster kids, to relatives, to foreign exchange students.  Julie was also a big Green Bay Packers fan!

She will be remembered for her smile and laugh, but mostly for her endless love for her family.

Julie is survived by her husband, Joseph; two children, Angela (Jacob) Dummer of rural Blair and Michael (Tina) Sass of Eyota, MN; six grandchildren, Lila, Caleb, Vivian and Jonathon Dummer and Taylor and Tyler Sass; two sisters, Carol Robinson of Strum and Lisa Ringwald of Eau Claire; five brothers, Herbert (Leonora "Nonie")  Bates of Eau Claire, Tom (Jeannie) Bates of Eleva, Bill (Karn) Bates of Altoona, John Bates of Mayville and Jeff (Leslie) Bates of Eau Claire; a sister-in-law, Helen Bates of California.

In addition to her parents, Julie was preceded in death by a brother, Edward.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, July 28, 2017, from 2pm to 8pm at Jacob and Angela's home (N28363 Nyen Road, Blair, WI 54616), with a Time of Remembrance at 6pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Cancer Society, Salvation Army, Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin or the Ronald McDonald House, which were charities Julie supported.

The Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family with arrangements.