Joyce Kempel

Joyce E. Kempel, age 83, of Pearl City, IL passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at home. She was born in Freeport, IL on April 11, 1942 to the late Orville and Mae Ellen (Baumgartner) Barkow. Joyce married Terry Kempel on February 2, 1963 in Fort Gordon, GA. 

She was a 1960 graduate of Pearl City High School and a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Pearl City where she was active in the Women’s groups. Joyce worked as a Dietary Aide for Parkview. She was great in the kitchen and no one ever left hungry. She enjoyed sewing, playing bridge, golfing, wildflowers, and making applesauce. Most of all, she loved her family and friends. She cherished every moment she spent with Terry, her children, her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her group of lady friends. 

Joyce is survived by her husband, Terry Kempel of Pearl City; her son, Shane (Jodee) Kempel of Pearl City; her grandchildren, Devon (Deidre) Kempel and Sam (Alissa) Kempel; her great grandchildren, Colbin, Huxley and Avriel; and her sister, Linda Blankenhorn of Freeport. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Brent Kempel; and her brother, Max Barkow.

Private family services will be held. A celebration of Life will be at a later date. Interment will take place at Highland Cemetery in Pearl City. A memorial fund has been established.