Julia Harlow Valeski

Julia Harlow Valeski, a longtime resident of Boulder, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025. Born in Tucson, Arizona in 1945 to William and Mary Louise Harlow, she is survived by her sons Jud and Ash (Lizzy) Valeski, her cherished grandchildren Logan, Annie, William, and Sarah, and her siblings William (Marion) Harlow and Rebecca Potter. She is preceded in death by her husband Tom and her brother John. A kind, honest, and strong-willed woman, Julia will be remembered as an anchor within her family, a lifelong friend of many, and a vibrant member of her community.

Julia attended the University of Wisconsin before transferring to the University of Arizona where she was reacquainted with her grade school classmate and future husband, Tom. After their marriage, she taught third grade Mexican immigrant children in Merced, California. Later, she designed and painted needlepoint canvases at The Green Door, and started her own interior design business, Boulder Design Studio. A gifted and disciplined artist, her creative passions included oil painting, needlepointing, and sewing. An avid collector, she preserved every memento-from family heirlooms and letters to drawings and shells-that reminded her of the people she loved.

Community involvement was a cornerstone of Julia's life, which she expressed through extensive volunteer work. Her roles included Puppet Show Chair for the Phoenix Zoo, Children's Day Chair and Docent at the Phoenix Art Museum, and various positions within the Junior League, where she notably chaired the Colorado cookbook committee and produced an award-winning collection of recipes. She was always happiest when surrounded by friends and conversation, maintaining strong ties with her wide social circles, including her Bible study group, book clubs, tennis group, and stitch group. She even built meaningful relationships with her local Starbucks baristas.

Julia's best achievement was her family, whom she loved unconditionally and with her whole self. Her sons and their families were the center of her world. She was a model grandmother, hosting grandchildren every weekend for many years, a time filled with treasured memories in the backyard playground she and Tom created in Heatherwood. Julia's legacy is one of unwavering loyalty, deep affection, and a wonderful use of color, which enriched the lives and homes of all who knew her.