"Dear Bill. Tom, Matt and Lisa, I am so sad and sorry about you all losing your incredible mother!! Your Mom was my Godmother, and I always felt she kept me in her prayers. I loved your Mom! And will continue to love the memories of her love!! I have many fantastic memories of our childhood. and will treasure them! Our mothers were best friends, and I am thankful for their relationship!! They showed us the true measure of love!! I am so sorry I could not attend her funeral. I have been ill, and greatly regretted missing Aunt Joyce's funeral and seeing all of you. You have my sympathy and love! Sally"
In loving memory of
Joyce Lela Heyenga
September 5, 1930 - August 11, 2021
Joyce Lela Heyenga, 90, of Allison, Iowa, passed away at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo, Iowa, on August 11, 2021. She was born September 5, 1930, in Butler County, Iowa, to William and Mattie (Roose) Harms. She married Karl Heyenga on September 12, 1948.
Joyce was baptized on November 24, 1930. Later she became a member of St. James Lutheran Church in Allison. She was very active in the church all her life, helping out whenever she could. She worked on the church council, was a lesson reader, helped with the visitation and funeral committee, and was a part of the WELCA women's group.
Joyce graduated from Allison High School in 1948. In her lifetime, she loved bowling, tennis, and golf, receiving trophies in each sport. Whether sewing, knitting, drawing, or gardening, Joyce excelled at everything she tried.
Joyce was the Butler County relief director for a number of years.
Joyce's greatest joy came from attending all of her children and grandchildren's events. She also enjoyed cooking Sunday dinners and holiday meals for her loved ones.
She is survived by her husband Karl of Allison, her children, William Heyenga of Oklahoma, Thomas (Kris) Heyenga of Cedar Falls, Matthew (Sheryl) of Allison, Lisa (Ron) Russell of Parkersburg, grandchildren, Sara (Trey) McVae of Oklahoma City, Lindsey (Kendrick) Renken of Aplington, Carly (Alex) Pollock of Parkersburg, Emily Russell of Des Moines, and Beau Heyenga of Waterloo, many great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Roland (Ferol) Harms, and sister Leona (Ralph) McCready.
Memorials may be directed to the family.
Tributes
"My heart goes out to Karl and all of the children. Joyce, being a busy mom herself ,took great care of our family when we were children when my dad lost his leg. Joyce not only provided meals but also babysat us kids and drove my mom to the hospital to spend time with dad as mom didn't drive then Joyce instilled great family values into her children and it shows to this day. Debbie Lammers"
"Sympathy to family. Joyce was a great friend as we were both Relief Directors. I was in Waukon. Went to DesMoines to meetings together. A great friend. ?????"
"So sorry, I remember a time when Darwin quit selling gas, Joyce was not happy but she always remained a very friendly caring person."