John J. Joyce

Jack Joyce, 85, of Overland Park, KS, passed away Sunday, November 22, 2009 at Shawnee Mission Medical Center surrounded by his four children. A celebration of Jack's life will be held from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, November 24, at Porter's Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, KS. The Funeral Liturgy will be held on Wednesday, November 25, at 11 a.m. at Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 71st & Metcalf, Overland Park, KS, followed by burial in Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, KS. The family suggests contributions to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers. Jack was born in Kansas City, MO, April 15, 1924. After graduation from Bishop Ward High School, he graduated from Kansas City, KS Junior College then attended Kansas University and the University of Kansas City. He served his country in the Air Force during World War II in China, Burma, and India as well as the Korean War. His 55 year career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers included positions as Business Manager of Local 124, Kansas City, MO 1969- 1976, and as Chairman of the Joint Apprenticeship Training, Pension, and Health and Welfare Committees. In 1977 he was appointed an International Representative in Washington, D.C. where he worked with the Grievance Appeals, Bylaws, Agreement Approval and Construction & Maintenance Departments. He retired to Kansas City in 1988. He married the love of his life, JoAnn Ryan in 1948 and they spent 54 years together. Their love of the beach was shared with family and friends at their place in Ocean City, MD. They traveled extensively and their favorite memories were of the Emerald Isle which Jack affectionately called, "A Dream Fulfilled." Jack was preceded in death by JoAnn in 2003. He is survived by his children Diane Joyce, Janet Kirkman and her husband Brad, Jack Joyce and his wife Linda, Paul Joyce and his wife Debbie; grandchildren Angela Irwin, Kelli Walker, Stacy Yelton, Patrick and Kevin Joyce; step grandchildren Jennifer Regan and Meghan Moss; and great grandchildren Haley and Hannah Irwin and Madison Yelton. He was eagerly awaiting the birth of his fourth granddaughter, Miss Regan. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law Bob Dorian, sister-in-law Martha Orth, and seven nieces and nephews. In his later years, he enjoyed the company of life-long friends. He traveled to Florida and the islands and was happiest looking out at the ocean. His sharp wit and sense of humor will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him. Most of all we will miss listening to his stories. This proud Irishman had lots of wonderful stories. Condolences may be expressed at porterfuneralhome.com. Arr. Porter Funeral Home & Crematory, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, KS: (913) 438-6444.