Joyce Beck

Joyce Marie Beck, 95, of Fergus Falls, died Thursday, April 25, 2024, at PioneerCare.

Joyce Marie Hagge was born on November 3, 1928 to John and Mary (Hanson) Hagge in her family's apartment above the Wendell, Minnesota hardware store. Her early years were spent living on several area farms until the family moved into Fergus Falls when Joyce was in grade school. Her loving parents set a positive tone in their home. Even through trials, hard times, and uncertainties, they always knew they were loved and that together they could get through life's struggles. With many of her parents' siblings in the area, Joyce and her brother Donald enjoyed frequent visits to the farms of relatives.

She was confirmed in Bethlehem Lutheran Church and graduated from Fergus Falls High School in 1946. During high school she worked downtown at O'Meara's department store and the Orpheum movie theater. In 1948 she was crowned Miss Northwest at the Detroit Lakes Water Carnival and had the opportunity to participate in the Minneapolis Aquatennial that summer.

On August 14, 1945, (V-J Day) she met her future husband, Charles Beck, who was home on leave from the United States Naval Air Corps. They married on September 5, 1948 and began their life together at the University of Iowa where Charles completed his Master's degree in Fine Arts in 1950.

Returning to their hometown of Fergus Falls, Charles set up a sign painting business and Joyce worked part-time at the Style Shop in downtown Fergus Falls. She then became a full-time mother, homemaker and confidant to her husband throughout his art career. Joyce was his number one assistant during the building of their homes in Fergus Falls as well as the bookkeeper and manager for their in-home art gallery. Joyce was a constant support for Charles during his teaching career at Fergus Falls Community College. Whenever Dad spoke about his career as an artist, he would credit Mom, saying, "I could never have done this without a wife and partner like Joyce."

Joyce served in the local schools' PTA organizations, was a Cub Scout and Campfire Girl leader, and led Great Books clubs. She taught Sunday School at Bethlehem Church and sang in the Bethlehem Church Choir. She also served on several committees for the Otter Tail County Historical Society during its construction in the 1970's. She was a faithful fan and cheerleader to her children during their high school and college years.

She enjoyed traveling with her family to various parts of the country as well as Europe and Africa and looked forward to winter vacations in Arizona with good friends.

Joyce was a meticulous housekeeper, excellent cook and a most gracious hostess. One can only guess how many dozens of homemade cookies and coffee were served at their dining room table, where friends would enjoy conversation while watching birds frequent their many bird feeders. Her love of nature was obvious in her home and surroundings; a value she has instilled in her children and grandchildren. We shall never see a cardinal without hearing Mom joyfully proclaim, "The cardinals are back!"

Joyce will be remembered for her upbeat and positive attitude toward life and for her willingness to always put others' needs before hers. She lived life graciously and instilled in all of us a desire to be and do better. Her selfless and steadfast care for Charles while he resided at the Broen Home were a clear indication of the marvelous love and devotion they shared for 69 years.

Grateful for her love and inspiration are her three children, Karl Beck of Fergus Falls, Carolyn (Don) Glesne of Underwood and Paul (Rhonda) Beck of Lafayette, Colorado. Her seven grandchildren: Lisa Beck (Buzz) Anderson and Kristine Beck (Chad) Welle; Jennifer Glesne, Elizabeth Glesne (Jesse) Huber, and John Glesne; Stephen Beck and Aaron Beck. Eight great-grandchildren: Andrew (Michelle) Anderson, Alex Anderson; Alexis and Levi Welle; Nora, Charles, Haakon and Solveig Huber. Great-great granddaughters: Brooklin and Allison Anderson. Her sister-in-law Florence (Beck) Johnson also survives her as well as her treasured nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles in 2017; brother and sister-in-law Donald and Avis Hagge; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Linwood and Joycelyn Beck; brother-in-law Elton Johnson; and nephew Charles Lynn Beck.

Memorial Service: 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 10, 2024 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service at the church.

Clergy: Reverend Loren Mellum and Reverend Eliza Johnson

Interment: Bethlehem Cemetery, Fergus Falls, MN

Arrangements are provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com