Joyce Marilyn Olson | ||
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| Joyce Marilyn Olson
MARQUETTE – Joyce Marilyn Olson, age 82, of 1536 C West Ridge Street, Marquette, entered eternal life Tuesday evening, September 29, 2009 at the Norlite Nursing Center, in the loving and comforting care of her family and the caregivers at Norlite. Born August 8, 1927 in Marquette, a daughter of William and Elvira (Baker) Reynolds, Joyce was raised in Marquette and was a 1945 graduate of the Graveraet High School. She later continued her education at Northern Michigan University where she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1949, and then went on to complete her Master’s Degree in Education in 1966. Joyce worked for the Marquette Public School System as an elementary teacher, mainly at Sandy Knoll Elementary School, from where she retired after 30 years. In her youth, Joyce grew up, it’s been said, as a bit of a tomboy. She loved to ice skate and Hurley Field had a great rink. Doing spins and twirls wasn’t for her, though, as she was known as a speedy racer. She also gained a bit of notoriety when, after accepting a challenge from the local boys, she climbed to the top of the Standpipe, a famous landmark where the ski hill is today. It was a tall, skinny tower that afforded lovely views of Marquette to those brave enough to venture up, and Joyce was one! It was at a college dance that freshman Ray Olson met the sophomore Joyce Reynolds. They married on June 24, 1950 and, as Ray puts it, they’ve spent almost 59 years dancing together. February is of course noted as the month for sweethearts, and Norlite Nursing Center honored Joyce and her best guy, Ray, as their favorite Valentine sweethearts of the month. In her leisure, Joyce channeled all the energy that made her such a daring tomboy in her youth. She played the piano and viola, sang in choirs both in school and at St. Peter Cathedral. She was also active in Girl Scouting with her daughter eventually becoming treasurer at the main office. Joyce also served as an active member and served proudly as Past Worthy Matron of the Presque Isle Chapter 403 Order of the Eastern Star. For 16 years, Joyce and Ray also escaped the snowy winters and spent time on South Padre Island. Survivors include her husband of 59 years, Raymond J; and children, Marilyn (Dennis) Olson of Idaho and John Olson of Detroit; two nephews, Bruce (Kathy) Reynolds of Sussex, WI and Bob Reynolds of Marquette. In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her brother, William Reynolds. A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 2, at 2:00 pm at the Swanson Funeral Home with Deacon Judy Britton officiating. Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm Friday until time of service at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association, 710 Chippewa Square #201, Marquette, MI 49855 or the Norlite Nursing Center, 701 Homestead, Marquette, MI 49855. The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff and residents of the Norlite Nursing Center for the many kindnesses extended to Joyce and her family. The Swanson Funeral Home is serving the family. | ||
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