Robert Xavier Joyce

Robert Xavier Joyce, 68, of Prunedale, California, passed away peacefully at home on June 1, 2025, after a courageous battle with advanced pancreatic cancer that had extensively spread to his liver. He was surrounded by the love of his family during his final days.
Funeral Services
A funeral service will be held in Robert's honor at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel, located at 255 Alvin Drive, Salinas, California, on Friday, June 13, 2025. Viewing at 11:00 AM, service at 11:30 AM. His interment will follow at El Carmelo Cemetery in Pacific Grove at 1:30 PM.
Early Life and Family
Robert was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 26, 1956, to Donald and Diane Joyce. As the eldest of four children, he grew up with his siblings Donna, Patrick, and LeeAnn. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Sharan Joyce, and their four children: Jennifer, Kimberlee, Benjamin, and Laura, along with seven adoring grandchildren: Ryder, Stella, Gwenevyre, Remington, Luke, Claire, and Callahan.
Education and Career
Robert received his early education at St. Agnes's Catholic School in Chicago before moving to California, where he graduated from Cupertino High School. He pursued further studies in aeronautics at Foothill College, and also took courses in computer science and administration of justice at DeAnza College.
In his professional career, Robert worked for Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) for 39 years. He started as a bus driver, later transitioned to vault puller, and eventually became a dispatcher. Robert was recognized as Employee of the Month several times and Employee of the Year in 2016 for his exceptional work, including coordinating driver training for VTA's extended services during the Super Bowl 50 at Levi Stadium. Upon retiring from VTA, Robert cherished spending more time with his grandchildren, often remarking that, "The worst day of being a grandpa was still better than the best day being a dispatcher."
Passions and Hobbies
Robert was passionate about many things, especially his family and volunteering at the Stockton Field Aviation Museum, where he contributed his time and knowledge to the restoration of a collection of vintage WWII aircraft and vehicles. His faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was a cornerstone of his life, and he found great joy in Temple worship and service. Robert also loved hosting themed birthday parties, where he created cherished memories with those he held most dear.
Memorial Donations
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Robert's memory to the Stockton Field Aviation Museum, a non-profit, all-volunteer organization he deeply cared about. Contributions can be sent directly to:
Taigh Ramsey
7432 C.E. Dixon Street
Stockton, California 95206
Email: taigh@twinbeech.com
Alternatively, floral tributes can be coordinated through Struve and Laporte Funeral Home, 831-424-0311.
Robert will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, hard work, and dedication will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.