Joyce Parker

Joyce E. Parker of Portage, MI passed away peacefully at her home on Monday evening, January 22, 2018 at the age of 90. She was born in Kalamazoo on August 28, 1927 the daughter of the late Lawrence G. and Florence I. (Dutton) Rynbrand and had been a lifelong area resident. Joyce graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1944 and later attended modeling school in Chicago, Illinois to pursue a career in concert piano. Her plans changed as she married and started her family here in Portage, MI. Joyce was well known as the Avon lady in her neighborhood before accepting the position of pay roll clerk at Durmatalic where she retired in 1993. Joyce enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and attending country music concerts. Her favorite memories come from spending time with her friends and family, including the many cookouts held at her home. Her hobbies included puzzling with her friend Charlene, playing her piano, getting ice cream with her brother Don, keeping up with her dahlia garden, and shopping at flea markets. Each month Joyce looked forward to the Dura Girls luncheons. Joyce is best remembered for the unconditional love she had for her family. Joyce is survived by her three children, James (Paula) Parker of Jackson, Duane Parker of Portage and Cyndi (Al) Johnson of Schoolcraft; four grandchildren, Steve (Amanda) Parker, Chris (Chasity) Laws, Robert Kovach and Jenny (Austen) Befus; two step-grandchildren, Tim Johnson and Katie Johnson; four great-grandchildren; and a brother, Donald Rynbrand. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 27 at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave. from 12 to 1PM when services will begin. Interment in Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park, South will follow the service. Memorials may be directed to the Kalamazoo Humane Society.