Joyce M. Epple, age 77 of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at the Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital in Grand Rapids, MN.

Joyce Marlene was born December 1, 1945, in Glenwood, Minnesota to Sam and Olga (Peterson) Simonson.  Joyce was raised in Grand Rapids and graduated with the Class of 1963 from Grand Rapids High School. She was crowned Princess Kay of the Milky Way for Itasca County in 1963.

Joyce and Bill met as a result of a blind date to her senior prom set up by her brother Bob and were together for the next 60 years. On October 3, 1964, Joyce was united in marriage to William Clem Epple at Zion Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids.  Joyce and Bill raised their family and resided in Grand Rapids.

At the center of her life was the love she had for her family. She enjoyed many camping and road trips through the years with her family. In later years she loved to spend time with her grandchildren doing many things such as playing games, arts and crafts, planting fairy gardens, fishing, pontoon rides, and traveling to visit them. Recently she enjoyed video calls with her great-grandkids.

Joyce enjoyed being a paraprofessional in Early Childhood Special Education for Grand Rapids ISD #318.  She was devastated to have to retire early, she loved working with kids. She was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church for many years. Through the years she was also involved in many organizations including 4-H, being a regional director for Mrs. Jaycees, foster parenting, being a den mother for Cub Scouts, volunteering at Grace House and Ruby's Pantry and the Grand Rapids Garden Club. She loved gardening and was known for her beautiful gardens and plants.

Joyce is survived by her husband of nearly 60 years, Bill; her beloved dog Willy; sons Ted (Barbara) Epple of Oshkosh, WI, Tim Epple of Big Fork, MN, Tony (Kerri) Epple of Chugiak, AK; daughter Lisa (Mike) Hare of Menasha, WI; sisters Rose (Duane) Boorman of Calumet, MN, Wanda (Larry) Birnbaum of Duluth, MN; brother Bob (Toni) Simonson of Cohasset, MN; grandchildren and great grandchildren; brothers-in-law John (Kathy) Epple and Denny Epple (Mick Davis) all of Cumberland, WI; sister-in-law Dorothy Lee and the late Dick Lee of Burnsville, MN; many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents; sister and brother-in-law Doris (Joe) Machones.

Joyce requested a Celebration of Life service when the flowers are blooming in the spring of 2024. Details will be announced when finalized.

Arrangements are with the Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.