Joyce Ann Bender was born Dec. 8, 1946, in rural Johnson County, the daughter of Dale M. and Iva Idella (Schlabaugh) Brenneman. She went to Prairie Dale rural school then attended Iowa Mennonite School. Joyce was united to Lloyd Bender on Oct. 12, 1968, at Sunnyside Mennonite Church in Kalona. To this union they were blessed with three children. Joyce and Lloyd lived in Colorado Springs, Colorado, for a few years, where they enjoyed going to the mountains with their friends, before moving back to Kalona. She enjoyed reading, puzzles, going for day drives with Lloyd, working outside in her garden, and her grandchildren and their activities. She also spent many hours volunteering at the Crowded Closet. Joyce passed away Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City at the age of 76.
Joyce is survived by her loving husband: Lloyd of Kalona; two daughters: Heather Bender of Washington and Heidi (Drew) Willems of Kalona; grandchildren: Simon, Eden and Asa Willems; two sisters: Carolyn and Elaine Brenneman; a brother: Richard (Chris) Brenneman; and a sister-in-law: Cinda (George) Hoskins.
She is preceded in death by her parents; a son: Rodney Bender; and a brother: Gordon Brenneman.
A celebration of life memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, at Kalona Mennonite Church in Kalona. A private family graveside service will be prior to the church service. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, at Yoder Powell Funeral Home in Kalona. A memorial fund has been established for Crooked Creek Christian Camp and Kalona Mennonite Church. Messages may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com. Yoder-Powell Funeral in Kalona is caring for Joyce and her family.
