Joyce Haugen

Joyce Haugen, 80, of Elbow Lake, passed away Sunday, July 20, 2014 at the Minnesota Veteran's Home in Fergus Falls, MN. She was born March 7, 1934, the daughter of Ole and Mabel Rindall of Fergus Falls, MN. Joyce graduated from Fergus Falls High School in 1951 and was active in choir and band, playing the bassoon. Following high school, she attended Northwest Institute in Minneapolis, and returned to work as a lab technician in the Fergus Falls Clinic. On November 29, 1953, Joyce married Jim Haugen. After Jim returned from Korea, they lived in Fargo for three years, then moved to Elbow Lake where they later purchased Jim's uncle's farm. Joyce and Jim were blessed with eight children. Joyce was very involved with her children and their activities. She set the record for the most consecutive years of participation in the Band Boosters Club. Joyce was an accomplished seamstress, creating unique apparel for her children and grandchildren, including their bridesmaid dresses. She enjoyed nights out dancing with friends and was an avid motorcycle rider, though many of her trips were short, transporting children to and from their activities.

She was stricken by Multiple Sclerosis in her early forties. Joyce turned her affliction into inspiration, loading her wheelchair into the back of her car and traveling the state to many speaking engagements. In 1981 alone, the International Year of Disabled Persons, she spoke to more than 35 groups, and hosted a workshop at Luther Crest. Joyce also worked with bible camps and was a delegate to the First National Consultation of Disabled Lutherans. She was a wonderful role model for persons of disability. As her ability to move decreased, her hat collection increased. Her sense of humor remained strong throughout, entertaining those around her. Joyce is survived by her husband Jim of Elbow Lake; her children Rebecca (Mike Custer) Froeming of Mukwonago WI, Gail (John) Nylin of Richfield, MN, Stephanie (Jeff) Angst of Elkhorn, WI, Brian (Jill) of Fargo, ND, Steven (Marsha) of Alexandria, MN, and Michelle Romano of Ft. Myers, FL. She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by daughters Elizabeth and Kristen (Jack) Juhola. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Multiple Sclerosis Society would be appreciated. Visitation: 5 – 7 PM Wednesday, at Erickson-Smith Funeral Home, Elbow Lake. Visitation resumes one hour prior to services at the church. Memorial Service: 11 AM Thursday, July 24, 2014, at United Lutheran Church, Elbow Lake Clergy: Reverend Scott Ruud Interment: West Elbow Lake Lutheran Cemetery Arrangements are with the Erickson-Smith Funeral Home of Elbow Lake. Condolences: EricksonSmithFH.com

Funeral Home: Erickson-Smith Funeral Home - Elbow Lake 116 1st Street NE Elbow Lake, MN US 56531

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Previous Events

Visitation
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Service
Thursday, July 24, 2014
cemetery
Thursday, July 24, 2014