Joyce Temkin

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Joyce Temkin, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on the evening of Tuesday, April 8, 2025, surrounded by family in San Ramon, California. She was 94 years young, full of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love until her final breath.

Born in Chicago on September 26, 1930, to Albert and Lillian Pick, Joyce grew up in the heart of Lincoln Park with her sister, Lois. A proud graduate of Senn High School in 1948, she later attended the University of Miami, where her spark for life, learning, and laughter continued to blossom.

Joyce was the devoted mother of Jeff (Robin) Brotman, Jay (Karen) Brotman, Jonathan Brotman, and Jill Brotman. Her greatest pride and joy came from her role as “Baubie” to her treasured grandchildren: Adam, Michael (Jessica), Jason (Brittney), Jared (Jessy), Alix (Idan), Callie, and Matthew. She also leaves behind eight adoring great-grandchildren: Skylar, Ben, Madison, Noah, Maya, Rowan, George, and Emily—each blessed by her nurturing heart and boundless love.

From years in Skokie, to brief chapters in St. Louis and Rockford, Joyce created community for her family. Meeting and marrying the love of her life, Alex Temkin, brought her to Madison, Wisconsin. Joyce loved the college town, the eclectic diversity of Madison, and the beauty of the lakes and rolling hills. Wintering on Crescent Beach in Siesta Key became Joyce’s happy place. She walked the beach daily, sometimes twice, collecting shells, and unusual findings for her grandchildren. Her playful approach and artful eye saw the beauty in any setting. A move to Buffalo Grove, IL brought her closer to family in 2004. In an effort to give Joyce a better quality of life, Jill and Joyce moved to the Bay Area. Three bouts of Covid did not stop Joyce. Jill joked with Joyce, they were CA Girls, and Joyce loved that.

Joyce was a woman of endless energy and spirit. She had a magnetic presence—gorgeous eyes, an unforgettable smile, and a heart that always made space for more at the holiday table. She was the original foodie, a fantastic cook, an avid gardener and reader, lover of sunbathing, dog and beach walks, and someone who knew how to savor life’s simple pleasures. Her home was filled with light, love, whimsy, and delicious smells coming from the kitchen.

Joyce’s final 4 years were spent in the Bay Area. Despite advanced Dementia, Joyce never lost her core personality. Her greeting was an enthusiastic “ I love you!” And she sure meant it.

These past four years brought Joyce two local great granddaughters, cousins who lived closer, and daily visits from her son Jeff. These moments, big and small, were filled with the same love, laughter, and gentle touch that defined Joyce’s life.

Her legacy is one of selflessness, humor, resilience, and deep devotion to family. She taught us all how to love without limits, to laugh until tears, and to find gratitude and joy in the everyday. Joyce Temkin was a bright light in the lives of all who knew her, and her memory and values will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

She was deeply loved. She will be dearly missed. And she will never be forgotten.

As Joyce said, “ It’s never goodbye, it’s Toodaloo!”

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434