Joyce Louise Rantz

Mrs. Joyce Louise Rantz (née Krueger), 83, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, passed away at home on March 19, 2024. She was born on May 18, 1940, in Sodus, MI to Rudolph & Lena (Nusbeitel) Krueger. All who knew Joyce would agree that she was "small but mighty," with an equal mix of sweetness, sass, and stubbornness packed into her tiny frame. Her love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was immeasurable.

After a career in retail, culminating in her retirement from JC Penney, she dedicated her time to helping in the Church daycare. She was fondly referred to as Ms. Joyce, and she thought of the children as "her babies".

Joyce was a long-time member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church (formerly St. Matthew's Lutheran). She found solace and community in her faith. In her free time, Joyce enjoyed gardening, nurturing her plants with the same love and care she showed to her family and friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Fred; grandson Coleman Wilson; sister Dora Baldauf, and brother Carl Gallagher. She is survived by her two daughters Diane (Ron) Clark of Michigan & Donna Wilson of California; six grandchildren: Justin, Joshua, Kelsie, Jennifer, Levi & Meilena; eight great-grandchildren: Justin Jr, Lily, Gavin, Rowan, Wynsley, Iver, Deacon, & Aiden; sister Olga Stieve, and brother Jordan Gallagher.

Arrangements for Joyce have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, St. Joseph. Joyce's celebration of life will be held at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church on Monday, June 10th at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow. If you would like to honor Joyce, please make a contribution to Beautiful Savior's Memorial or Building Fund: 1965 Broadway, Benton Harbor MI 49022.