Joy Michelle Niklasen
May 10, 1982 - September 3, 2014

"Gone so soon but not forgotten.. Sorry for your loss. She was a very sweet person and I was glad I got to know her in high school."

"Joy, I can't believe you are gone so fast. Although I am very glad to know that you are in a better place. You went out with my Uncle Travis for a few years. You took us sledding, bought us candy, went to the Fort Dodge pool with us! We miss you so and I am so lucky to have spent the time I have spent with you LOVE YOU and MISS YOU _Laci Hilpipre"

"Derek, We were saddened to hear of your loss. Our prayers are with you. We are sure that Joy is at peace in our Father's arms. May God's peace be with you now. Karen and David Christoffersen"

"So sorry for the loss of one who made such a vibrant and beautiful difference every day. Joy added so much to life and really made an impact on young and old alike. She will be greatly missed"

"Derek, Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and friends during this difficult time. We love you. Don & Cristina"

"We just heard the news tonight when my son went to county council interviews. Joy had quite an impact on so many youth in Polk county. Her smile was contagious. She will be missed. "

"John and Marilyn and your dear family, My heart is so heavy with the news of your untimely loss. My mind also takes me back to your Mt. Pleasant days, our times together with the church and P.E.O. families. Grandma Ella in heaven will be remembering too -- Love with prayers, Elizabeth Garrels"

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Joy! She was a wonderful person who always had a smile on her face. She will be missed by the entire Story City community. So sorry for your loss! Our deepest sympathies to her family. "

"The camera loved Joy. Look back on the pages of the DFJ in her 4-H years, and one will see again, in page after page, about her work, her accomplishments, and her dreams for the future. Joy had a mother who taught her how to be kind, how to exhibit real grace, and how to always look for the good in this world. To Joy's beautiful mom, her husband, and to all her family now grieving, I pray that grace will reach you from above and give you strength and comfort in the days ahead. -- Mark and Lori (Nilles) Berglund"

"Marilyn, John, and Clark, Words can't express our deepest sympathy over the loss of Joy. You are all our hearts and prayers. Murray and Paula McMurray"

"My heart breaks to hear this news. I had worked with Joy at Polk County Extension Office for a period of about 6 months before I left to pursue a different career. In the 6 months that Joy and I had worked together we became really good friends, I remember her trying to talk me out of leaving. Her name fit her to a T. She could light up any room with her beautiful smile. She was a true "joy". I am so glad I got to have such a short time with her. Please know my thoughts are with you."

"I was so incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Joy. I didn't know her that well, but we were the same age, and I had a lot of friends from Webster City growing up.(I am from Eagle Grove). I knew her from different activities, sports and mutual friends. She was always so incredibly sweet and compassionate. She had a real sparkle in her eye and she loved life. My heart goes out to her family and friends at this time. An amazing life taken way to soon from this earth. Rest in Peace Joy. You will be truly missed. "

"I was blessed to grow up with Joy and her family during their time in Williamsburg. Looking back at my childhood, many of my fondest memories included times with Joy. I still remember our many sleepovers, birthday parties and Barbie play dates. She was a wonderful friend and had a smile and personality that was truly contagious. Joy was a very special person and she will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Joy's family and the many lives she touched along the way."

"I had the privilege of meeting Joy at the Polk County Extension office as a new 4H leader. I absolutely loved how passionate she was for helping others, and of course her love for the Cyclones. A fond memory I have of her was when I was able to secure a Paul Rhoads signed football for the silent auction at the Polk County Fair. She was so excited (or as she would say exCYted) and purchased the football for Derrek for Christmas. I remember that she couldn't wait to give it too him as she had to keep it in her office a few months until the big day. You could tell that the gift giving for her was a bigger joy than gift getting. She definitely had a passion for pleasing and serving others----she had a true servant's heart. My son had the opportunity to serve with her on several occasions as well, and he is heartbroken, as we all are, that she is gone. She will not be forgotten as her memory will live on in my son's and other 4Her's hearts that she touched in the brief time we knew her. She was special. Know that you all are in our prayers. May you look to Him for healing and comfort during this time. Brenda & AJ Gill "

"Our family will fondly remember Joy through our daughters. They looked up to her as a superb role model and as a beautiful, kind young woman. Deepest condolences... "

"Joy was one of the first people I met at Extension when I started in November 2013. She made sure that I felt apart of whatever we were doing. We worked on a couple of projects, shared gossip, laughs and the love of Bling. May she dazzle the heavens with her contagious smile and a good dose of Bling(Especially her bracelets). You will be Missed! Cynde Keating Madison County Extension and Outreach "

"I had the privilege to work with Joy & Derek when they planned and held their wedding reception at my facility. Hearing the news of Joy's passing deeply saddens me. My prayers to her parents, brother, and especially to Derek. I am so sorry for your loss. "

"To Derek and the Middleton Family, Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We didn't have the opportunity to know Joy personally, though by reading the memories posted, she was a loving and special individual. Let Jesus carry you in this difficult time and that the Holy Spirit touch your hearts with peace. John Fink and the Accouting Group at Lennox Industres"

"Joy was an adorable baby, a darling little girl, a sweet teenager, and a lovely young woman. Knowing her throughout her life makes it incredibly difficult to say goodbye. I pray for you to have strength to make it through this most difficult time. I'm thinking of you. "

"We so enjoyed getting to know Joy and Derek through their friendship with the Newell's and Pohlen's. We would see them at birthday's, ballgames, and gatherings. Joy's smile would light any event. The more we were around her, we could see that she was even more beautiful on the inside-if that were possible. We are so very sorry. What a brilliant light she was!! David and Mary Newell"

"I loved having joy in class. She was good to everyone and shared her smile with all students. She was very special. Karen Gerard"

"Marilyn and John, we are both so sorry for your lost. Can't imagine how you and your son can make sense of this terrible tragedy. Takes a lot of faith and good friends to get you through something like this. I still remember when you got pregnant, Marilyn, and how happy you were. I'm sure you both were wonderful parents and she was proud of you. Those memories are what will get you through the tough days. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Jerry & Lavonne"

"Marily: I don't know if you remember me, howver, we went to high school together as the Class of 1969. I want to express my sympathy to you and your family on the loss of your daughter, Joy. As I have read about her, she was a true "Joy" to all and a special unique gift from God. I only wish that I would be there to give you a hug and share tears with you. May God walk with you at this time and hold you and your family in His Hands. "

"Marilyn, John and Clark-- Words cannot express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. Joy was such a lovely and precious young woman. Our hearts go out to you--our prayers for your strength and healing will continue. "The Lord bless you and keep you..." Doug, Mary and Elliott Fast"

"Joy's smile is what I will remember most. I met Joy when she joined the Parks and Recreation Department! Filled with such happiness, and always made me laugh and smile. May you be able to feel God's arms wrapped around you during this difficult time. "

"My daughter, Brianna, and I are deeply saddened to hear of Joy's passing. Joy was an inspiration to so many youth in Polk County. She always went above and beyond her duties and made sure that each child felt special. Her name "JOY" says it all, because she brought joy with her wherever she went. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of this wonderful woman. "

"That big smile is how we will forever remember sweet Joy. I hope the Middleton family can take comfort in knowing that Joy was a role model for not only my girls, but for many many people. She was a kind, positive, loving woman. My heart aches for them. Please know Joy touched many lives in a positive way, and they should be proud of this as they ensure these hard times. - The Doug Schaa family"

"I met Joy through the Iowa Park and Recreation Association. She went out of her way to include me, as a newcomer, into her circle of friends. We didn't get to talk much throughout the year but when we met at conference every year it was like saying hello to a lifelong friend again. Heaven is a brighter place with her in it and all who knew and loved her will have a hole in their heart for some time. My deepest sympathies to all the family and friends. Our lives are richer for having known Joy."

"It is a very sad time when someone like Joy is no longer with us. She was one of the kindest young ladies I have ever had the privilege to meet. My daughter and I ran into her at the Des Moines Farmer's Market a few months ago and had a lovely conversation about what was going on in all of our lives. When I heard the news of Joy's passing, the first thing that came to mind was that she was one of the few people who truly treated my daughter nicely in school. When I told my daughter of her passing, the first thing she said was the exact same thing. She was very special. My family has had a Middleton family connection for many years and our heart and prayers go out to all of you at this time of sorrow."

"Middleton and Niklasen families, Words can't explain how sorry we are for your loss. Joy was an incredible person that went out of her way to befriend both Ashley and me at ISU. May you find comfort and peace in support from family and friends. We will be keeping you in our prayers. Brian and Ashley Adrianse "

"Joy was such a sweet, sweet person and will be missed so much. My daughter came to know her through Polk County 4H County Council and just loved her. We were so excited when she recently joined our North Polk family. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family, along with our deepest condolences. Rick, Cindi, Maggie & Rachel Zimmermann"

"Marilyn and Family, On behalf of the staff of Oakwood Care Center, Clear Lake, we wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your daughter. We are thinking of you and your family at this most difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you try to cope with this tragic loss. Sheri Weaver-Isvik, Administrator, and the Oakwood Care Center Team "

"To my friend Marilyn and Family, There are no words to tell you how sorry I am to hear of the loss of your beautiful daughter. I want you to know that I am thinking of you and praying for comfort for all of you at this very sad time. With love and friendship, Sheri Weaver-Isvik"

"Our hearts are with all of you during this very sad time. Troy, Missy and Morgyn Bullock"

"Dear Families, My daughter joined 4H 3 years ago in Polk County, and Joy was a true inspiration to her. She cheered her on and encouraged her when it was time for her county share-the-fun solo vocal performance and also the fashion show, supported her through her many projects, was one of her camp counselors this past summer at 4H camp, and even gave her the opportunity to be in a TV commercial about 4H. Joy made a meaningful and lasting impact on my daughter. She was an inspirational role model, and her passion for 4H and ISU will continue on through the youth of Polk county. "

"Our deepest, heartfelt condolences to Derek, Marilyn, John, Clark, and your entire community, on the loss of beautiful Joy. I loved the times my family and I spent with Joy, most happy celebrations of weddings, baby showers, and birthdays. She was always so pleasant, smiling, and took my Hawkeye vs. ISU jokes in stride. My four year old niece, Joy's cousin, asked for my hand while walking on Saturday and repeated to me that Joy had died. She went on to say "She was the best. Joy was just the best. I'm just so sad." I think Peyton summed it up perfectly. Joy was the best. And her bright spirit will certainly be missed. May you find comfort in the coming days, and know that many who loved her too hold you up from afar. Godspeed. "

"Nikalsen and Middleton families, My heart breaks for all of you! Joy was a PEO sister of mine in Story City. I always found her to be kind, empathetic, and genuine. We loved having her bubbly, gentle spirit in our chapter and her focused work ethic in our community. Thank you for sharing her with all of us! She was a delight. In friendship, Denise Jewell Carlson "

"Marilyn, when I received your phone call last Friday I was in shock and my heart was torn in two. A parent should not have to go through this terrible pain that you are experiencing. I will keep the memories of Joy and Beth as little girls growing up in Williamsburg. They had so much fun playing together dressing up, swimming, looking at each others new clothes and school supplies after shopping trips before the start of each school year. They were best buds and I remember the last day before you left and all the tears we shed saying goodbye. These are the memories I will always cherish. You know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Lean on Him, your friends and family through this difficult time. God Bless! Sheryl Neal"

"Words can't express our grief and sorrow in losing our dear Joy. No family can prepare for a tragedy like this. We lost her in her prime of life, and she had so much love and joy yet to give. She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her. But...we can rest assured that we will see her again one day. We love you, Joy! Uncle Brent & Kris"

"I only knew Joy a very short time but already knew how she was liked and loved by so many. Was looking forward to getting to know her at school. Prayers to her family and friends who are mourning her passing. "

"Sending our heartfelt sympathies to all of you on your loss! Joy was a ray of sunshine and a gift to all who knew her. Praying for God's strength as you journey one step at a time. Wes, Cindi, Elizabeth and Kyle Sweedler"

"So sorry to hear of Joy's passing. I remember her bubbly attitude and her bouncy pigtails. Our sincere sympathy to all of her Family. God bless. "

"We knew Joy through my sister Janell. She was such a wonderful, sweet person and her name fit her perfectly. We will miss her and are praying for her and all of her loved ones during this difficult time. "

"Joy's namesake embraced who she was and what she blessed others in her life with. She will be deeply missed and our hearts are so very sad for Derek and Joy's family. We pray that God provides the strength for you to celebrate her wonderful life in the days to come. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family Derek."

"We have had a hard time putting our feelings into words. There are tears of sadness because she is gone, but also tears of laughter as we reminisce about the wonderful person she was and the fun times we had. Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your families. "

"What a blessing Joy was to all who were fortunate to have had her in their lives. One of the things I remember most about Joy as a little girl was her beautiful smile and the strong bond she shared with my sister. As I've read the tributes of others, it is evident these are the same traits that defined her in adulthood as well. I can't begin to imagine the pain you are experiencing, but know that you are surrounded by friends, family, and most importantly Him during this time. "

"My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. Joy was my student intern at Reiman Gardens while she was a student at ISU. I will never forget her beautiful smile and positive attitude. As an intern, she started the Story County Plant-A-Row for the Hungry program and it is still going strong today ... a wonderful legacy to Joy for her kindness and compassion for others. She left her mark and will be missed. Linda Naeve"

"Joy will be missed at our Niklasen gatherings. We looked so forward to catching up with Derek and Joy on their life journey. Thankful we were blessed with her for a moment. Casting all your care upon him, for he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 "

"There are no words that can soften your pain. The loss of a spouse is numbing and the loss of a child is unbearable. We are thinking of you and keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. With faith, family, and friends you have the support you need."

"We send our thoughts and prayers for your family during this difficult and sad time."

"Wish I had words to lighten your agony but sometimes words are just not enough. Please accept our deepest condolences on your loss of beautiful Joy. You are in our thoughts and prayers."

"Words seem inadequate, yet we want to extend our deepest sympathy. Our hearts are still heavy with the shocking loss of Joy. May God give you strength in the days ahead."

"We just met Joy and her husband a few years ago. They were friends with my son and his wife ( Adam and Amy Woodle). She was such a darling girl. We are so sad for your loss. "

"Marilyn john n clark my heart is heavy thinking of you all so much .for the short time i knew joy she was a beautiful young ladie.she had a heart of gold.she will be deeply missed by many.heaven gained another beautiful angel my she rest in peace god bless!!!"

"My heart goes out to you, Marilyn, and to your family. This is a pain no parent should have to bear. I truly believe, in due time, you'll see your Joy again but not just for 32 short years....it will be for eternity. I wish I could bear some of your pain for you. Please know that I am praying for you to have the strength and comfort needed at such a horrific time. With sympathy to you and yours. Sandy (Gibbs) Butler"