Joyce Klassen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandma, great-grandma, and aunt. 

Joyce Klassen passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the age of 88, at her home in Calgary, Alberta. She was born Florence Joyce Kelly on January 17, 1936, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

Joyce was a beloved wife of Leslie Paul Klassen and a loving mother of five children, Kelly (Neil), Patrick (Monica) Joseph (Theresa), Mary (Earl) and Kim (Yves). She was also a proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren, Patricia, Leslie, Colin, Meagan, Nicole, Michael, Natalie, Matthew, Adam, Samantha, and Danny; and 10 great-grandchildren. Joyce was predeceased by her parents Joseph and Mary Kelly; her husband, Leslie; and her siblings, Elma, Wilmer, Alvin, Ralph, Howard, Patricia and Carl.

Joyce had a passion for volunteering with charities like Inn From the Cold and Meals On Wheels and was active in the Catholic Women’s League, Rosary group, and music ministry at her parish.

Throughout her life she enjoyed sports like bowling and skating, and activities like reading, playing cards, making puzzles, crocheting, watching baseball, MASH and Hallmark movies, eating sweet foods and Manhattans. She loved going for car rides, enjoying the views out the window and the company and conversation inside.

Her faith in God played a huge part in her life and guided and supported her through her joys and her sadness. Family was the most important element in her life. She was very close with her siblings and enjoyed telling stories about what they did when they were growing up together. She loved her children equally and unconditionally and was always available to help with babies or sickness or tragedy or just life. She had a quick wit, was very smart, and loved to laugh. She will be most remembered for her kindness, generosity, and loving attitude. 

A Funeral Mass will be held at Canadian Martyrs Church (835 Northmount Drive NW) on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 1:00 pm. A private interment will follow at a later date at Sacred Heart Church and Columbarium, 1307 14 St SW, Calgary, AB.

Joyce will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the memories of those who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Joyce's honour.

"Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear." - Author Unknown

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joyce Klassen, please visit our Tree Store.