JOYCE ELSIE SCHMIDT

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JOYCE ELSIE SCHMIDT August 4, 2001 brought a close to the life of Joyce Elsie Schmidt, someone whose life was rich in relationships. These provide happy memories for each person whose life was touched by her. Joyces life began as a daughter to Kelvin and Elsie Darling on July 31, 1938 in LaRiviere, MB, and her mother survives her today. There she lived her childhood which included her sister Helen Ruth and brother Dennis. During this time her only eternal relationship was formed as a child of God. Following completion of high school, Joyce became a teacher, a relationship in which many young lives were touched. On August 1, 1958 Joyce and Arthur Schmidt were married and a happy relationship as a wife began in Altona, MB. It was here that she enjoyed 43 years of farm life with Arthur. At the same time Joyce became a special daughter-in-law and sister-in-law. In May of 1959 Joyce became a mother as she and Arthur welcomed their daughter Phyllis Ruth. In the ensuing years Joyce continued teaching. This led to a new and unexpected relationship in which she became known as "Aunt Joyce" to Novaley Ann Martin who was included in their lives as a foster daughter. Joyce is also fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews who have happy childhood memories of time in Aunt Joyce and Uncle Arts home. In 1979 Joyce became a mother-in-law to Phylliss husband Brad. She and Arthur wholeheartedly welcomed him as a "son" in their family. Joyces role as a grandmother began in 1981. In the following years she became a beloved "Nanna" to her three grandchildren, Evan, Bethany, and Abigail. Also to many she was a true friend, and to some a second Mom, and even "Nanna" to several others. Over the past few years Joyce had faced many bouts of illness as a result of diabetes. Consequently she was also often a patient. Through her times of illness the family had a deep sense of support through your many prayers, and expressions of love. At this time her family thank each of you for your care - you know who you are! Joyce will be lovingly missed, but at the same time we can take comfort and find joy in knowing that she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord Jesus. As each of us walks on with the Lord to meet the varied circumstances of life, we will treasure Joyces last words... "JOY COMES IN THE MORNING!"

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 08, 2001