50 Years, 50 Legacies: Wayne M. Judy
#22: Wayne M. Judy
Written by Barry Simmerman
Barry Simmerman is the grandson of Wayne M. Judy. He now lives in Richmond, Virginia, but spent many summers in International Falls and fishing on Rainy Lake nearby to his grandparent's cabins, Happy Shack and Robin's Nest.
As an avid outdoorsman, inventor and local businessman in International Falls, MN, Wayne Judy (1902–1979) was an early supporter and advocate for the establishment of Voyageurs National Park. He and many others in the state and local community worked relentlessly on the project from the conceptual stage through its inception by rounding up local and legislative support, holding meetings at his downtown International Falls Sportsmen’s Service business, and lobbying state and local representatives to lend their support.
Wayne and his wife, Opal Judy, raised their daughter Sharon Judy Simmerman in International Falls. Their grandchildren, Robin Pitcock and Barry Simmerman, spent many summers visiting from across the country. Days were often filled with time at the family’s cabins, Happy Shack and Robin’s Nest, on Rainy Lake and Footprint Lake in Canada. Built by Wayne and Opal years earlier, these cabins became a beloved gathering place where family and friends fished from duck boats, swam in the chilly northern waters, listened to the calls of loons and played board games late into the evening. Wayne was known for guiding visitors to the best fishing spots and celebrating whoever caught the biggest or most walleye with the honor of “king or queen of the day.”
When not at the lake, Wayne could often be found at Sportsmen’s Service or at his desk in the basement of his 3rd Avenue home. Evenings frequently included listening to Twins games on the radio, preparing for the next day and writing diary entries. Much of this time was also devoted to his ongoing work to advance Voyageurs National Park.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Wayne M. Judy played a pivotal role in the park’s development, advocating for its creation and working tirelessly to ensure its preservation. His efforts were instrumental in bringing together local communities, government agencies and conservation organizations to establish the park. His contributions were so deeply recognized that when President Richard Nixon signed Voyageurs National Park into law in 1971, the pen used for the signing was sent to Wayne Judy in honor of his leadership and dedication.
Judy’s specific accomplishments included spearheading the campaign to designate the area as a national park, negotiating with landowners to secure protected areas and collaborating with scientists to identify key ecological zones for conservation. As a founding Director of the Park Association, he also worked to develop educational programs that highlighted the park’s unique history and biodiversity, ensuring that visitors could appreciate its significance.
Wayne Judy’s story reflects not only a personal passion for the outdoors but also a lasting commitment to his community. His leadership, dedication and vision helped make Voyageurs National Park a reality, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of park stewards and visitors.
Check out the full list of our 50 legacies!
This year, we’re celebrating 50 years of Voyageurs National Park by sharing 50 inspiring stories of the people who shaped its legacy. Years, 50 Legacies is a yearlong storytelling series highlighting individuals whose lives are woven into the fabric of the park – whether through conservation work, cultural traditions, recreation, research, or personal connection.
Raise a canteen and celebrate this historic milestone with us at our 50th anniversary website. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more inspiring stories and updates!
