Trudie Anne Givens, a long-time resident of Foster City, CA, passed away on September 15, 2025, at the age of 80 after a long battle with dementia. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her son Rick Givens, daughter Julie Willett (Rob), son Michael Givens (Laura); grandchildren Amanda Macdonald (Peter), Ryan Willett (Allison), Jessica Givens, Sarah Givens, and Kara Givens; and her brother David Miller. Trudie was preceded in death by her husband Darold Givens and her parents Fred and Billie Miller.
Born in Omaha, NE, on July 10, 1945, Trudie grew up in San Francisco, CA, where she graduated from Lowell High School in 1963. Trudie and Darold were married in January 1965 and shared 58 years of love and partnership until Darold's passing in 2022. The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2015 with family and friends in Redwood City, a testament to the enduring bond they shared.
Aa a devoted mother, Trudie was actively involved in her children's lives, volunteering at Foster City Elementary and Bowditch Middle Schools, contributing to PTA activities, and supporting their sports and scouting endeavors. Her commitment to family extended to her grandchildren, whom she adored. Trudie expressed her love to her family with her crafts: creating holiday pillowcases, sewing Halloween costumes and making quilts. As a talented cake decorator, she created beautiful cakes for family and friends-some of her most cherished works were the wedding cakes she made for her children.
Stained glass artistry was another of Trudie's many skills. She was known for her remarkable skill, patience, and attention to detail, making everything from stained-glass windows to replica Tiffany lamps. She even worked at a stained-glass studio in Burlingame, teaching others her craft.
In the 1990's, Trudie and Darold enjoyed country dancing, frequently participating in events hosted by the Country Quicksteppers Club. When their kids were young, vacations included camping trips and annual visits to Southern California to see family. As their children grew older, Trudie and Darold traveled to many exciting places, such as Sydney, Australia, Calgary, Canada and Memphis, Tennessee.
Trudie's love for Volkswagen's, particularly her beloved buses, was legendary. She drove them with pride and determination, despite the challenges of keeping them running.
Trudie touched the lives of many through her kindness, creativity, and devotion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A memorial service to celebrate Trudie's life will be held at a later date.