Joyce Ann Klempel

Joyce Ann Klempel, sister, beloved wife, a farmer/rancher, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great great-grandmother and friend passed from this earth to be with her heavenly Father on February 17th, 2023, in Oceanside, CA.

Joyce was born October 21st, 1934 in American Falls, Idaho to Herbert and Bessie Ruff.  Joyce graduated from Aberdeen High School in 1952 and married Howard Klempel in 1953. 

Joyce was dedicated to nurturing her family and being a loyal friend.  She was active in the First Mennonite Church and proud of all the congregation accomplishments.  Joyce was involved with Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, she was also part of the team from the church who worked in the kitchen to support many different events.  Joyce was a member of the Kings Daughters and met routinely with her friends at the church to quilt, making many of them for the annual MCC sales.  Joyce helped with the summer camps and ensured her grandchildren were able to attend. 

Joyce was there to support Howard when he received the 1965 Bingham County Grassman of the Year.  She became a 4H leader along with helping Howard until he retired then spent time with him gardening.  Throughout her and Howard’s life they supported the agriculture lifestyle including the activities of their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  For the last five years, Joyce has been living in Vista CA with her son Donald enjoying warmer weather, their garden and plants, and almost daily walks around the neighborhood.

Joyce is survived by her two sons, Donald (Tina), Kelly (Debbie), brothers John Ruff (Betty Kay) and Leonard Ruff (Cris), sister Marylyn Richard (John), two sister in-laws, Helen Harder and Dorothy Isaak; 7 grandchildren: Heather, Katie, Dawn, Justin, Amber, Merissa and Micah; 18 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.  Joyce is preceded in death by her parents, brothers, husband Howard and son Russell.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, March 4th, 11:00 a.m., viewing prior starting at 10:00 a.m. at the First Mennonite Church, 381 West Washington, Aberdeen, Idaho.  Interment will be in the Homestead Cemetery followed by a lunch at the Fellowship Hall.  The visitation will be Friday, March 3rd from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Davis-Rose Mortuary, 170 Idaho St., American Falls, ID.

In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution may be made to the First Mennonite Church Camp Fund, 381 West Washington, Aberdeen, ID 83210 or Old Faithful Christian Ranch, 145 6th Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83401.