Joyce R. Erickson, a longtime Elcho resident and businesswoman, died Monday, May 4, 2020. She was 91 years old. She was assisted in her journey home by the staff of Evergreen Terrace and LeRoyer Hospice. Born July 19, 1928, she was a daughter of Ralph and Gertrude (Mentz) Grumann, who operated a dairy farm in rural Laona. She graduated from Laona High School and, following in her mother's footsteps, from business college, a rarity at the time.
Returning to Laona, she met Howard O. Erickson. The couple married on May 20, 1950 in Laona. They lived in Sheboygan and Sheboygan Falls prior to moving to Elcho, where he was employed as manager of The State Bank of Elcho. After her youngest child entered elementary school, Joyce went back to work, beginning a three-decade career as business manager of the General Clinic in Antigo. She helped guide the facility through numerous expansions and changes, including construction of a new facility adjacent to Langlade Hospital and its affiliation with Aspirus.
She was a member of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Elcho. Mrs. Erickson enjoyed flowers, gardening, reading and treasured her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was the consumate professional in everything she did and imparted those values on her children.
Survivors include two daughters, Mary (Tim) Rusch of Summit Lake, and Lisa (Michael) Haefs of Pelican Lake; a granddaughter, Amanda (Nick) Schommer of Hastings, Minn.; and three great-grandchildren, Thomas, Ryan and Alayna Schommer.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; two daughters, Patricia and her husband Greg Broukal, and Linda Erickson; and a grandson, Daniel Rusch.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Elcho. Rev. Paul Radke will officiate. Burial will follow in Elcho Community Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Bradley Funeral Home and Saturday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of services. The family asks that, in this time of the coronavirus pandemic, guests observe social distancing guidelines.
A memorial has been established in Mrs. Erickson's name to St. Luke Lutheran Church, Elcho or to the charity of your choice.
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Antigo, WI 54409
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Elcho, Wisconsin 54428
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Elcho, Wisconsin 54428
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Joyce was a neighbor across the street from the parsonage where my husband, Rev. Jack LaMar, and I lived. She was always pleasant and strong through the grief she experienced when she lost her husband, two daughters and son-in-law. Her accomplishments were many. Mary and Lisa: she is in a very good place now. My condolences to the entire family.
Carol S. LaMar
Joyce was a wonderful woman, professional, caring, compassionate & a great boss. Hired me at the clinic 40 years ago. I loved & respected her all these years. Rest In Peace, dear Joyce.
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