Joyce A. Marquardt

Joyce A. Marquardt, a beloved soul who touched the lives of all she encountered, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the age of 94, at The Brook in Roscommon, MI. Born on August 5, 1930, in St. Helen, MI, Joyce's journey through life was marked by love, laughter, and an enduring spirit that inspired those around her.

Joyce was the youngest of 6 children born to Edward and Violet (Terhune) Schwalm. She grew up on the family farm in Keno and always considered it her home. She married Ben Marquardt and moved to Niles, MI, but throughout her working life, she continued to spend vacations and holidays “up north” at the farm.

Her brother, Lloyd, had taken over the farm and his four children looked forward with excitement to those times when Aunt Joyce would visit. She always had a special activity or outing planned for the family. She never forgot a birthday and kept in contact with all the nieces and nephews into their adulthood.

When she retired and moved to the small house in the woods by the farmhouse, she became an active member of the community. Throughout the months when Lloyd and his wife became ill, Joyce and her husband Ben were there to bring help and comfort. After their deaths, Joyce continued to keep an eye on things at the farm and never lost her love for the home where she grew up.

Joyce's life was one of deep devotion and unwavering strength. She was a cherished wife to her late husband, Ben Marquardt, who preceded her in death. Together, they created a home filled with warmth and kindness, embodying the values of hard work and love.

She is also preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Harold, Vera, Maurice "Pete," Francis "Dean," and Lloyd, all of whom are now part of her everlasting memory.

Her legacy continues through her vibrant family, which includes 12 treasured nieces and nephews: JoAnn Zeller, Richard Schwalm, James "Vigil" Yantz, Dale Schwalm, Linda Underhill, Judy Jurn, Robin Brief, Terri Jurn, Kathi Wagner, Clinton Schwalm, Barbara Regan, and Sande Grebe, as well as several great-nieces and nephews who carry forward her love and devoted spirit.

Joyce's life was beautifully intertwined with countless moments that created a tapestry of memories cherished by all. She possessed a remarkable ability to connect with others, leaving an imprint of kindness wherever she roamed.

The funeral service will be held at St. Helen Community Baptist Church in St. Helen on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. Pastor Ken Peterson will officiate. Immediately following the funeral service, the family will host a luncheon at the church. The burial will be at Brookside Cemetery in West Branch at 2:00 p.m. for those wishing to attend.

Memorial can be made to the Relay for Life of Midland County at 386 S. 7 Mile Rd., Midland, MI 48640.

Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com.