Joyce C. Jahnke

Joyce C. Jahnke age 90, of Parkers Prairie, passed away with her family at her side on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at St. Williams Living Center.

The funeral service is 11 a.m., on Monday, September 16, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie with Rev. Kirk Lee and Vicar Joe Bates officiating. Music is provided by organist, Maureen Diedrich and soloist, Dedra Zwieg. Interment will take place at St. William’s Cemetery.

A visitation will be held from 3-4 p.m., at St. William’s Living Center Chapel and 5-7 p.m., on Sunday, September 15th at Immanuel Lutheran Church and will continue one hour prior to the service.

Joyce Corrine was born on November 9, 1933, to Walter and Frieda (Klein) Huwe in Parkers Prairie. She was baptized December 15, 1933, by Rev. August Seiving and confirmed on May 25, 1947, by Rev. Karl Ansorge at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie. Joyce graduated from Parkers Prairie High School in 1951. Following her education, Joyce worked at the high school as a secretary for eight years. Joyce was united in marriage to Richard Gappa on August 13, 1955. They made their home in Parkers Prairie where Dick owned and operated the Standard Oil Station. Joyce and Dick were proud parents to three children, Rick, David, and Cathi Jo. Dick passed away on February 6, 1981. 

Joyce was united in marriage to Gilmore Jahnke on June 23, 1985. They made their home in Parkers Prairie, enjoying their retirement years until Gilmore’s death on May 7, 2014. They enjoyed some travels and spending time at the lake with children and grandchildren.

Faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Her dedication to the church was evident through her over 50 years as a choir member and active involvement in the LWML until the time of her passing. She enjoyed participating in various Bible studies, being part of the prayer chain, and contributing to several church committee groups throughout her life.

The Christmas season was very special to Joyce. She loved to decorate her home for the holiday and especially looked forward to and enjoyed hosting family get togethers. Joyce also loved her time with her many good friends. She was part of “birthday club” for over 60 years and was happy to invite new members over the years. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dick Gappa; husband, Gilmore Jahnke; son, David Gappa in 2018; and grandson, Jake Gappa in 2020.

Joyce is survived by her son, Rick (Deb) Gappa of Parkers Prairie; daughter, Cathi (Scott) Boerner of Becker; daughter-in-law, Jody Gappa of Parkers Prairie; stepchildren, Kim (Jan) Jahnke of Richmond and Kaylene (Chuck) Pogulis of Maple Grove; sister, Gloria Pulscher of Alexandria; grandchildren, Kelly (Caleb) Olson, Jacki (Jake) Suchy, Matt (Brittany) Gappa, Zachary (Abby) Gappa, Cody (Paige) Sigfrid, McKenzie (R.C.) Christensen, Aaron (Bri) Boerner, Derek (Hayley Conter) Boerner, Grant Boerner, Brady (Katie) Jahnke, Megan (Amy) Jahnke, Tiffany (Anthony) Strother, Miranda (Kain) Bergstrom, Michelle Pogulis, and Eric Pogulis; great-grandchildren, Owen, Wyatt, and Finn Olson, Olivia and Ella Suchy, Madelyn and Jackson Gappa, Maverick Gappa, Elsie Sigfrid, Preston Christensen, Grayson and Stella Boerner, Saige Boerner, Isabelle and Claire Jahnke, Ruby and Piper Kettunen, Louie and Evie Jahnke, Kyle DeLarsoby, Sophia and Emma Strother, and Grayson Bergstom; along with numerous nieces, nephews and relatives.

Pallbearers are her grandsons, Aaron Boerner, Derek Boerner, Grant Boerner, Matt Gappa, Zach Gappa, and Brady Jahnke. Honorary pallbearers are the LWML of Immanuel and grandson, Jake Gappa.