Joyce Ann Schlepp

Joyce Schlepp Obituary

SCHLEPP, Joyce Ann
(Ratekin)

Joyce Ann (Ratekin) Schlepp, age 77, of Grizzly Flats, Calif., died Saturday, December 15, 2007, at Marshall Hospital, Placerville, Calif., after a short illness resulting from her fledgling battle against lung cancer. She was born on October 27, 1930, in Cedaredge, Colo. Joyce was the youngest of three siblings born to Roy Edgar Sr. and Florence Irene (Dunham) Ratekin. She attended Woodland High School and Chico State University prior to marrying her high school sweetheart, Lee, 57 years ago. Joyce worked for the local optometrist in Woodland Calif., part-time during school and full time until Lee returned from his tour of duty with the United States Navy during the Korean War. Joyce was a committed wife, mother and grandmother who lived the extreme value of "family" on a daily basis. (She often acknowledged how very fortunate she was to remain a homemaker throughout her married life.) Joyce was a supportive soul-mate to Lee and a devoted mother who was always present at the events and activities of her children. She was also the number one fan and cheerleader for each of her grandchildren. Her words of encouragement will forever ring in their ears.

After 33 years of living in Southern California, Joyce loved her relaxing life among the pines in "Da Flats". While she enjoyed the frequent visits to see her kids, she always looked forward to returning "home." For Joyce, the kitchen was always the "hub" of their home. Many lighthearted, insightful times were spent around the increasingly crowded family table. Joyce loved cooking and was always willing to share "secret" family recipes with her children and their families.

Her close friends and family will fondly remember her as the eternal optimist, only seeing the good in others while consistently sharing a positive attitude toward life in general. Her example is a guiding force in all of our lives. Joyce is survived by her husband, Lee D. Schlepp of Grizzly Flats, Calif., a daughter, Susan C. (Schlepp) Hamilton (John) of Downey, Calif., two sons, Steven C. Schlepp (Laraine) of Escondido, Calif., and Thomas E. Schlepp (Julie) of Roseville, Calif., nine grandchildren, as well as a brother, Douglas W. Ratekin of Lebanon, Ore., in-laws, several nieces and nephews and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by a son, Kurtis A. Schlepp, a grandson, Jonathan R. Hamilton and a brother, Roy E. (Bud) Ratekin.

Per her wishes, Joyce's cremated remains were scattered in the Pacific Ocean on New Year's Day 2008.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 13, 2008, at Chapel of the Pines, 2855 Cold Springs Road, Placerville, Calif., (530) 622-3813. Family friend Pastor Johnny Trevino will officiate.

The family requests that you consider the American Cancer Society, ( www.cancer.org) P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, phone: (800) 227-2345, or your favorite charity in lieu of flowers.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Jan. 7, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Joyce Schlepp

2 Entries

Patricia Martin

January 9, 2008

Aunt Joyce,
You were part of my for over 50 years after my mother Rose married your dear brother Buddy. It's so hard to have you and Dad both leave this world within a few weeks of each other. I remember the fun we had when we visited you and Uncle Lee. We will always think of you fondly.
Patricia

Heather Stilwell (Hamilton)

January 8, 2008

Of course, reading the obituary brought tears to my eyes, but its words are so true! My grandma always saw the best in each situation. I remember calling Papa and Gramma to tell them how life in grad school was and when I'd call with a frustration, Gramma was the first to cut me off (really, there were times she did not let me finish complaining!). She would interject that she knew I'd make it and she'd remind me of all I really had going for me.

As I've now graduated and started my career, there are times I wish I could call and share my excitements and frustrations with her and if it were the latter, I know she'd interject and remind me how blessed I am.

I am very grateful for all she taught me and the mark she made on my life. Gramma was there for my wedding - that is something I'll always remember. Since her passing, I've opened my wedding guest book a few times and read her note to me - man, what wisdom!

I'm so blessed to have had a grandma like mine. It's not easy to say goodbye, but I remember the morning I left for the airport to fly to Northern California and be with my family at the hospital, the Lord specifically spoke to me saying, "Heather, let her go. It's okay, I have her in my hand." Since her passing, I've recalled that more than once. Those words from my Savior bring comfort and peace when pain is overwhelming.

Gramma, I miss you. Please don't hesitate to whisper in our ears and visit us in our dreams! We'll need that from time to time. And don't worry, Papa's covered. I'll be sure to call and check in, just like I always have. I love you!

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