Joyce Irene Neubauer, age 76, died Saturday, March 14, 2015 after a 6 month battle with cancer. Born May 16, 1938 in Kalamazoo, she was the daughter of Richard and Irene (Cook) Ockerman who preceded her in death. Joyce lived in the Kalamazoo area her entire life, working 42 years for the Charter Township of Texas, most of those years as Township Treasurer. Upon her retirement, the Farmers Market Pavilion was dedicated to her in honor of her years of service.
Joyce graduated as Valedictorian of Mattawan High School Class of 1956. Also in 1956, she married Terry D. Neubauer who preceded her in death in 1999. Together they raised 3 children who survive, Jerry (Mary) Neubauer of Midland, MI; Terri Jo (Terry) Umlor of Kingsley, MI; Jim (Toni) Neubauer of Libertyville, IL. Joyce is also survived by 7 grandchildren - Kelsie, Brian, Elizabeth, Mitchel, Jeffrey, Martha, and Macey. She is survived by her sister, Arloa Coffell, of Zolfo Springs, FL and sister-in-law, Judy (Rich) Lemaire of Elberta, AL, along with several cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by sister-in-law, Sherin Lance of Portland, OR.
Joyce enjoyed her family immensely, and frequently traveled to watch her grandchildren participate in high school and collegiate sports. Joyce's many friends around her Crooked Lake neighborhood could count on seeing her on her daily walks with her beloved dog, Oscar. Joyce found time to volunteer with Hospice of Southwest Michigan and at Calvary Reformed church where she was a member. Memorial contributions to these organizations are encouraged -(Hospice http://www.hospiceswmi.org/donations.php Calvary Reformed Church http://calvaryreformed.org/about-calvary/ ).
A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. March 28, 2015 at Calvary Reformed Church, 7829 S 5th St., Mattawan, MI 49071, with Pastor Greg VanHeukelom presiding. Friends may meet with the family at the church Friday evening from 5-7 and also immediately prior to the service. A luncheon will be served after the service and everyone is welcome.
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