Joyce Marie Vander Meer passed away September 16, 2017 at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, CO after a lengthy illness. She was born March 22, 1936 in Wray, CO to Anna Belle and James Gertson. Joyce was the youngest of 5 children.
As a child, she attended school in Akron and graduated in 1954. She loved telling stories of having to walk to school when they lived in the country. During her high school years, she was known for her skills as one of the baton twirlers.
She married Dale Vander Meer on September 25, 1954 in Raton, New Mexico. One daughter, Susan was born to this union.
Joyce was a very outgoing and fun person who loved to make people laugh. She loved being around people and most of her jobs over the years consisted of working with the public. She worked as a waitress, a sales clerk for Woodies Men's wear, deputy clerk with Washington County Clerk's office and also secretary for Washington County Commissioners. She was also parade superintendent for Washington County Fair. She retired from Washington County in 2007. She also served on the Washington County Hospital Board for 20 years and was a lifetime member of American Legion auxiliary.
Joyce is survived by her husband, Dale, daughter Sue Brotton of Akron, 2 granddaughters, Angela (Mark) Lorimer of Wray and Jamie Thorn of Otis. Also 5 great-grandkids, Jaydan, Kiley, Tyler, Erick and Sheyann. Sister, Jo Anne Ellsaesser of Bloomfield, New Mexico and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents Anna Belle and James Gertson, brother James Gertson Jr and wife Geneva, sisters Virginia Gray and husband Dale, Mary Kuecke and husband Richard, her father and mother in law Barney and Frances Vander Meer and son in law Jim.
A funeral service was held Friday, September 22, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Akron. Interment followed at the Akron Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Akron Senior and Community Center.