JOYCE TEESE

TEESE JOYCE
Passed away on November 19, 2012, due to complications from adrenal cortical cancer. Joyce Amber Kloss was born on May 13, 1947 in Greenville, Pennsylvania. She arrived at the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children in 1950 at age three when her father, Alton G. Kloss, assumed the position of Superintendent of the School. She spent the next 57 years there, 37 of them being on the staff first as a teacher, counselor and finally supervisor. Never leaning on her heritage, Joyce developed her own reputation as a caring and effective professional that was fully invested in the well being of the students. Joyce was married briefly to Charlie Teese in the 1970s. Although the marriage was short, their friendship continued throughout her life. In 2009, Joyce married Konrad Kammerer, who was truly her ultimate soul mate. Although they enjoyed a short marriage, their bond was incredibly strong. Those who knew Joyce will always remember her connection with nature. Whether she was watching a winter snowstorm, feeding the wild turkeys that lived near her home in Gibsonia or walking by the shoreline on a sunny day, Joyce appreciated the environment that surrounded her. She respected everyone who occupied the space with her. Her co-workers recall a woman who put the "Golden Rule" into practice. Joyce always dealt with others the way that she would like to be treated herself. She championed fairness, and her ability to reconcile divergent opinions was highly regarded. Joyce had a strong devotion to animals, both wild and domestic. Throughout her lifetime, she shared her home and property with some amazing companions, including the handsome horses, Justin and Romeo, the playful cats, Herby and Henry, the loyal Irish Setter, Kevin, and finally Char the lovely cat that she rescued. An Alumna of Grove City College, Joyce held advanced degrees from both the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University. Joyce was predeceased by her parents, Virginia Stoyer Kloss and Dr. Alton G. Kloss. She is survived by her husband, Konrad Kammerer; stepchildren, Daniel Kammerer and Kristen Wyse; and six step-grandchildren; she also leaves scores of friends, former students and co-workers. Burial is private. It was Joyce's wish that there be no memorial service. Her life, her example, and her spirit is the memorial. Interment will take place at Mount Royal Cemetery in Glenshaw. Memorial contributions may be made in Joyce's name to the North Hill's Passavant Hospital Cancer Center or Animal Friends, Pittsburgh, PA. Arrangements by BOCK FUNERAL HOME, LTD., Glenshaw.
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