Joyce Marie Goates

Joyce Marie Goates, 62, of Salina, died Friday, April 17, 2015, at home. She was born in Salina on April 13, 1953, to Carl and Vera Jo (Pihl) Eklund. She was married to Jack Goates on September 7, 1973. Joyce was a lifelong Salina resident, graduating from Salina Central High School in 1971. After her daughter was born in 1975, her love of children led her to open a day care in her home. She invited numerous children and their parents into her home and her heart in her 38-year career, many of whom became like family to her and her family. She lovingly and patiently helped mold so many little lives. Joyce’s hobbies included quilting, traveling, rooting for KU and heckling K-State fans, serving God with her church family through Altar Guild and WELCA, spending time with her beloved friends, and enjoying life with her family. Her love of life shined exuberantly in all that she did, in her smile and laughter. She was devoted to her family and took care of everyone she loved. Her favorite places on earth included anywhere she could be with her grandchildren, and somewhere on a beach with her toes in the sand. Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Carl and Vera Jo Eklund, and grandparents, Wallace and Veda Pihl. She is survived by her husband, Jack; daughter Jennifer, of Salina; son Jeremy (Marieke) of Lawrence; and grandchildren (and light of her life) Andrew, Corrina and Benjamin; her two brothers and sister- John (Jeanette) Eklund of Salina, Jolene (Stan) Deneke of Simpson, and Jeff (Jacque) Eklund of Hutchinson. She is also survived by nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, and every other child that she took care of with her whole heart wide open. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Salina. Memorial Service will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 23, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, with a luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 255 S. 7th, Salina, Kansas 67401.