Joyce Ecker

Joyce M. Ecker went to be with her Lord on August 4, 2022, while surrounded by her family at her home. Joyce was born to Jack and Virgie Birge on June 28, 1942 in Pequot Lakes, MN. She was born in the car on the way to the hospital and that was the last time she was ever early.

Joyce loved spending time visiting and laughing with her loved ones. She was always there to help out, take care of others and babysit her grandchildren. Joyce loved listening to music, singing and playing the piano. She was active at her church for many years. Decorating the church for the holidays became one of her favorite activities. The last few years, as it became more difficult to leave the house, it brought her great joy to keep up with friends and family through social media.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Richard; daughters, Kimberly (Mark) Hopper and Sonya (James) Crimmins; grandchildren: Nathan McFarland, Nolan (Kaylee) Hopper, Ethan, Genevieve, Margaret and Shay Crimmins; great-granddaughters, Kieran and Raina Hopper; siblings: Patsy Birge, Larry (Theresa) Birge, Gary (Annie) Birge, Barb (Scott) Hendricks, Sharon Olson, John Birge, Rebecca Birge, Janice Birge; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Virgie Birge; father, Jack Birge; and grandson, Eli Crimmins.

Services will be held at the Backus Nazarene Church on August 20 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a time of fellowship and light lunch. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.