Joyce Pokrant

Joyce Arlene Pokrant, age 87, entered her eternal home with her Lord and Savior, on September 5, 2023. She was a resident of Abbotsford, but the last couple of years she was a resident of the Colonial Health & Rehabilitation Center in Colby.

Joyce was born to Melvin and Eleanora (Jensen) Gauerke on June 22, 1936. She graduated from Abbotsford High School. She received Normal School training to be an elementary school teacher. Joyce taught in a rural Wisconsin school and also in Rockford, Ill., at the Rockford Christian School.

Her love for music saw her giving lessons on the piano, organ and accordion. When able, Joyce enjoyed playing for church services and the last couple years, she enjoyed playing keyboard in her nursing home room.

Joyce is survived by her two children: Vicki Calcagano of New York and Mark Pokrant of South Carolina; and a granddaughter, Nicole Calcagano. She is further survived by her two brothers, Eugene (Donna) Gauerke of Rockford, Ill., and Kenneth (Mary) Gauerke of Eau Claire.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents. Joyce was a member of the Abbotsford Free Church, where she had many friends she enjoyed.

Joyce’s family appreciates the care given by the staff of Colonial Health & Rehabilitation Center and Heartland Hospice.

A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, at the Abby Free Church. Pastors Ken Gauerke and Ron Weller will preside. Burial of the cremated remains will follow at the Abbotsford Public Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 2 p.m. until the time of service Saturday at the church. A live stream will be available for those unable to attend on the Maurina Schilling Funeral Home Facebook page or after the service anytime on Facebook or the website. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be sent to the Abby Free Church. Family and friends may express condolences online at www. maurinaschilling.com.

Paid obituary 141863