Joyce Winkler, age 88, of Sparta, MI, passed away peacefully at home on March 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 9, 1936, in Curtiss, Wisconsin, to Herman and Louise Buss.

She is survived by her children, Chuck Winkler Jr. (Connie Shirley), Leslie Winkler-Melle, and Steve Winkler; her grandchildren, Corey Brown (Scott), Michael Melle Jr. (Ashley McCarty), Erin Stamboulieh (Nick), and Joe Winkler; and her great-grandchildren, Zander and Conner Melle. She is also remembered fondly by many wonderful nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Louise Buss; her beloved husband, Charlie Winkler Sr.; her brother, Norbert (Vangel) Buss; her sisters, Waunetta (James) Clements and Wanda (George) Duchane; father and mother-in-law, Charles Winkler (Geneva); sister-in-law, Ruth Winkler; brother-in-law, Bob Winkler (Joann) and her son-in-law, Michael Melle.

Throughout her life, Joyce wore many hats—she was a talented baker, a dedicated bus driver, and a devoted member of Harvest Bible Church. She had a passion for volunteering, giving her time generously to various sports associations and the Girl Scouts of America. An exceptional athlete, she excelled in both softball and bowling, where she met the love of her life, Charlie Sr.

Joyce found joy in driving her bus, cheering on her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at their sporting events, and traveling across the country with her husband, granddaughter, and friends for postal conventions. In her later years, she discovered a love for creating artistic stickers and coloring with her great-grandchildren, often relaxing in her chair surrounded by her beloved pets.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A visitation service will be held on Friday, March 28 at 11:00 AM at Harvest Bible Baptist Church, 289 Gooding St, Conklin, MI 49404, followed by a funeral service starting at 12:00 PM and a luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Joyce's memory.