Joyce Vivian Johnson, 92

Joyce Vivian (Peart) Johnson was born Jan. 19, 1923, to Arthur and Lola Peart in Hazel Green, Wis.

On a blind date, Joyce met Floyd E. Johnson of Galena, Ill. They had a passion for dancing and enjoyed many of the big name bands from Chicago. Their love of dancing resulted in their marriage on June 26, 1939, one year after their first date. Joyce and Floyd were married for almost 67 years.

Joyce was one of the first to earn her GED in a southwestern Minnesota adult education program. She went on to complete a program earning her license as a Food Service Supervisor and managed the kitchen at the Granite Falls Hospital and Manor until her retirement. This was a natural career for her as she had a passion for cooking and passed this to family and friends.

Joyce loved her family - especially her grandson, Zach. He was the "light of her life." Until her eyesight failed due to macular degeneration, Joyce volunteered at Zach's school and earned a diploma from kindergarten. Her home was always open to her children's friends, and many friends of both Beverly and John ended up calling her "Mom," which is a testament to her warm and nurturing nature.

After several months of declining health, attributed to her age, Joyce passed peacefully on March 20, 2015.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd; her parents Lola and Arthur Peart; her brother Jack; and sisters Florence, Maxine and Beverly Rose.

Joyce is survived by daughter Beverly of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; son John and daughter-in-law Debbi of Rathdrum, Idaho; grandson Zach of Post Falls, Idaho; and sister-in-law Dolores Johnson of Rockford, Ill.

At Joyce's request there will be no memorial service. The family plans to have a celebration of her life at a later date.

Because of her love of animals and desire to help local organizations, all gifts of money will be donated to the Kootenai Humane Society, a no kill shelter.

Joyce will be missed, but she is dancing with Floyd again.

Visit Joyce's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.