Joyce A. Keppler, age 92, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away peacefully at Americare Lodge in Grand Rapids, March 16, 2024.

Joyce Arlyne Keppler was born at home March 24, 1931, in Cohasset, Minnesota, the daughter of Elsie M. (Padgett) and Joseph A. Paulley.  Joyce attended country school and graduated from Central School in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

On August 10, 1948, Joyce was united in marriage to Leroy Franklin Keppler in Deer River.  Together, Joyce and Leroy raised four children and settled in Grand Rapids.  The Kepplers owned and operated Standard Oil Gas stations.  Joyce managed all aspects of the business from pumping gas for customers, changing oil and tires on vehicles, as well as being the bookkeeper for their business. Joyce and Leroy went on to run other businesses throughout the years including Uhaul Rentals and East End Towing.  Joyce was recognized with an 8 Year Outstanding Service award from Uhaul Rentals.

Joyce can be remembered as an accomplished knitter creating some of the most beautiful sweaters.  She loved to go fishing.  Joyce was fondly called "Grandma Keppler" by everyone who knew her and was always proud that her family included grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. Traveling to Oregon to spend time with her family and experiencing the Pacific Coast was always a highlight.  In her later years, Joyce enjoyed making "Scrubbies" to pass her time and to share with family and friends.  Her strong bond with Karen Yuhala, a special friend who was truly like a sister, created opportunities for the two of them to spend many hours together.

Joyce is deeply missed by her children, Rita Malcolm, Deb (William "Hook") Ausiello, and Harlan "Harley" (Kristin) Keppler; daughter-in-law, Peggy Keppler; many, many grandchildren; great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren; sister, Elaine Paulley (Chuck); many nieces and nephews; and extended family including Karen Yuhala.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leroy; son, Michael Keppler; son-in-law, Warren Malcolm; granddaughter, Jennifer "Jen" Hendershott; and her brothers and sister, Thomas, Doris, James, and Joe.

Joyce's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Essentia Health Itasca Hospice and the staff at Americare Lodge for their outstanding care.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM, Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Rowe Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 12:00 Noon.   Interment will follow at the Itasca Calvary Cemetery in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.