Joyce Elaine Gustafson

Gustafson, Joyce Elaine (nee Carlson Ecklund) 90, passed away peacefully on September 9, at Covenant Senior Living in Golden Valley, Mn. Joyce was born February 18, 1934, to Roy (Carl) and Della Carlson at home on the family farm in Braham, Minnesota. The eldest of 3 daughters, she was raised in the Twin Cities area attending Standish Elementary and Roosevelt High School. Joyce met the love of her life, Jerry Ecklund at a roller skating arena, and they were married in September 1951. To this union four children would be born. Joyce married Dan Gustafson in January 1972, and with this union Joyce inherited three bonus daughters. Joyce loved life, family and people and her legacy will be her love of family. Joyce was most proud of her 19 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren, and imparted teachable moments to each of them. She was a fun-loving gramma, stealing moments to play games with her children and grandchildren. Joyce deeply valued her friendships throughout her life, always the organizer of visits and reunions. Joyce was known for always having room for, "just one more," guest at her table, a gracious hostess and excellent cook, with her gift of hospitality. Joyce was infamous for her hundreds of Christmas cookies she would bake and pass on to her neighbors, friends and family. Joyce and Dan loved to travel and would "See the world" together throughout their travels to all 50 states as well as throughout Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Joyce shared a giving spirit, mindful of the homeless and less fortunate. She also gave her time to advocate for those causes in which she felt strongly about. Joyce was a firm supporter of Planned Parenthood in the early 1970's and served as an Election judge for the DFL party. Joyce had a big heart for animals, adopting several cats and supporting the Veterinary Clinic near her home throughout her life. Joyce's passion for reading began with her starting her day with a cup of coffee and reading her newspaper from cover to cover. Joyce lived a life well lived. She always told her children, "Give it to the Lord, Our good Lord will take care of You!" Joyce leaves behind her four children, Jerry Ecklund (Bev), Jeanne Tongson (Joe), Janet Ewalt (Scott), Jill Reschetz (Dave); step daughters, Karen (Tom) Jollie, Kathy McMurray (Doug), both deceased, Nancy LaBerge (Arthur); 19 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, two sisters, Shirley Olson and Janice Grusssendorf, one brother-in-law, Joe Olson, one nephew, three nieces, and many cousins and friends. Thank You to the wonderful care- giving staff at Covenant Living for the compassionate care they provided. Visitation will be held Thursday, September 12, from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Chapel Service from 11:00 am to 12:00 p.m. with a Celebration on Life Reception following the Service at Washburn-McReavy, 5000 West 50th & Highway 100 Edina, Minnesota 55436. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996