On December 27th, we said goodbye to our loving Mom, Joyce Barbara (Kostuk) Olsen, who passed peacefully. Joyce was the true matriarch of our family — a woman who gave endlessly of herself and always put others first.  She is survived by her two sons; Kelly (Sandy) and Scott (Bergljot), six grandchildren; Katie, Selma, Samson, Adam, Emil, and Elijah, one brother Jack (Sharon) and one sister Donna.  She is predeceased by her husband of nearly 66 years, Bernard (Barney) Olsen, sister Lori, brother Bob, and mother Hilda.

Joyce grew up first in Chisholm and later in Edmonton.  She attended H. A Gray school and Victoria school.  After meeting and marrying Barney, Joyce settled into the role she cherished most: raising their two sons, Kelly and Scott. Family was always at the center of her world. She shared an especially close bond with her own mother; they were truly best friends and nearly inseparable. Joyce treasured the many picnics, shopping trips, and outings they shared, and she loved nothing more than having her two sons with them on their adventures.

Joyce was a devoted supporter of her family, faithfully attending countless hockey, baseball, basketball, and volleyball games for her boys and later her grandchildren. She took great joy in watching them grow and succeed.

Joyce and Barney spent many weekends with her sister Lori and brother-in-law Bernie. Joyce loved bargain shopping with Lori, it was one of her favorite pastimes.  Joyce showed her love through cooking, always spoiling her family with delicious meals. She took great pride in her gardens, where homegrown flowers, vegetables, and fruit brought her both joy and a sense of accomplishment. Quiet country drives and frequenting local garage sales with her beloved husband Barney were other simple pleasures she deeply enjoyed.

Though dementia eventually took part of our mom from us, Joyce faced it with the same strength and determination she showed throughout her life. She remained a warrior to the end.  We will miss her more than words can express, but we find comfort knowing she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones and friends she hasn’t seen in a long time.

Her family would like to thank Everitt Gardens memory care for their love and support they have shown to Joyce over the past 5 ½ years.  We are also appreciative of Westlock Healthcare Centre for their care in her final days.

In keeping with Joyce’s wishes, there will be a private family celebration at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the  Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories.