Joyce Pelnar

Joyce Pelnar, age 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 25, 2025, held closely by friends in Rochester, Minnesota. Joyce was born in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, on January 7, 1940. She spent her life as a devoted homemaker and volunteer, dedicating countless hours to both the Mayo Clinic and her local community.

Growing up in Kewaunee, Joyce had a mischievous and adventurous spirit. She became known for her warmth, generosity, and infectious laughter. This was sustained all her years of life, lending to her grandsons having vivid memories of the times spent at her home in Byron. They recall nights catching fireflies and watching thunderstorms from the porch-often with warm bowls of "John Deere" soup. During childhood visits, Joyce would spoil them with trips to Snoopy Land at the Mall of America and make grocery shopping an adventure full of indulgent treats (as long as they finished their dinner). Joyce's love for games also led to countless hours of playing cribbage, where her tenacity and wit shone through. Joyce instilled a love for bowling in her grandsons from a young age, with Garrett especially taking to the sport, all thanks to her patient instruction.

In her later years, Joyce demonstrated incredible strength and grace while caring for her daughter, Cindy, during her hospice care and subsequent passing. Joyce's devotion to Cindy and the way she supported her family during such a difficult time will always be remembered by her loved ones.

Joyce was spunky, mystical, and unafraid to speak her mind. Her strong personality, combined with a heart full of love, left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her grandsons, Chris and Garrett, often say they married their wives for the same spunky, spirited quality-one they can proudly attribute to their beloved Grandma.

Joyce is survived by her grandsons, Chris (Sarah) Kyle and Garrett (Sarah) Kyle, and her great-granddaughter, Maeve Kyle. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herb "Emil" Pelnar, and her children, Scott David Pelnar and Cindy Sue (Pelnar) Kyle.

Visitation and memorial services will be held at a later date (TBD) at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home in Rochester, MN. Inurnment will take place at Preston State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, MN.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Joyce's memory to the Mayo Clinic or a charity of your choice.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Pelnar/Kyle family. To share a special memory or leave a condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.