Joyce Zelinsky

Joyce Louise (Doll) Zelinsky passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, at CentraCare St. Cloud Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on June 29, 1963, in Richardton, ND, to Alex and Rose Doll, Joyce was the youngest of eight siblings. She grew up on a farm in Glen Ullin, ND, where she was baptized and received her First Holy Communion at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She later moved into town, where she attended Glen Ullin High School.

On August 20, 1981, Joyce married Walt Zelinsky. They lived in Pittsburgh, PA, for several years before settling into their forever home outside of Underwood, MN. Just weeks ago, Joyce and Walt celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary. Together, they shared a passion for motorcycle riding and supported local charity bike runs, including Dough 4 Joe and Boots on the Ground. In recent years, they cherished summers at The Homestead at Ottertail RV Park and Resort near Battle Lake, MN, where they formed close friendships that became like family.

Joyce took great pride in her role as head PM cook at the Good Samaritan Sanford Health Center in Battle Lake. This November would have marked her 30th year of dedicated service-a milestone she was truly excited to reach. Her warmth, compassion, and unwavering work ethic made a lasting impact on her coworkers and the residents she lovingly served.

Above all, Joyce's greatest joy was her family-especially her grandchildren, Graycie, Charlotte, and Daniel. She lit up when speaking about them and cherished every moment they spent together, especially their time baking (zucchini bread was always a favorite!).

Joyce will be remembered for her kind heart, her fun-loving spirit, and the unconditional love she gave to all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Walt Zelinsky; her children, Walter (Ashton) Zelinsky Jr., Missy Zelinsky, and Mike Zelinsky; and her beloved grandchildren, Graycie, Charlotte, and Daniel. She is also survived by her siblings: Robert Doll (TX), Dan Doll (CO), Doug Doll (Almont, ND), Elaine Theurer (CA), and Peggy Fischer (Mobridge, SD); as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alex and Rose Doll; her brothers, Harold Doll and Alex Jr. Doll; and her cherished dog, Rascal.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Olson Funeral and Cremation, with visitation one-hour prior to the service. Family and friends will gather to honor Joyce's memory and the many lives she touched. Please dress casually.

Officiant: Jeff Christenson

Interment: Private family burial at a later date.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com