Joyce Elaine Hetrick

JOYCE ELAINE HETRICK, 69, died Monday, January 1, 2024, at Northern Lakes Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Facility, Angola, In. months after a diagnosis of a rare and aggressive cancer. In her final days, family and friends traveled from near and far to be at her side.

Joyce was born on Aug. 17, 1954, to parents Ted and Lois Gardiner; she grew up 1 of 6 siblings, surrounded by many cousins who still cherish memories from their time together. While attending Snider High School, she met a young man named Dave at the Fort Wayne Three Rivers Festival; soon after her graduation they wed. Joyce was a devoted wife to David Hetrick in sickness and in health; reaching the milestone 50 years of marriage in 2023. They enjoyed an adventurous life together, working as they traveled around California and Oregon. After some time living in a converted school bus RV (skoolie), the family settled in Northern Indiana closer to their parents.

She was a proud and nurturing mother, survived by 3 children: son Gabriel (Ashley) of Bronson, MI; daughter Grace of Alexandria, VA; and daughter Sarah of Atlanta, GA; and 5 grandchildren Megan (Dextin), Michael, Madison, Angelina, and Chloe. Whether homeschooling or passing along life lessons, she taught her children countless skills that will echo her impact in their daily lives.

An avid Beatles fan, Joyce embodied a hippie lifestyle abundant in art, sustainability, and spirituality. Her passion for nature was often showcased in her vibrant garden; her green thumb known for reviving African violets and nurturing overgrown begonias. When her hands were not gardening or creating macrame wall hangings, they were hard at work sewing clothes with a unique flair to delight her loved ones. Joyce’s creations showcased a talent that made impressions on recipients of her handmade gifts, such as her famous (and often requested) yogurt bread. It was in these consistent acts of service to others that she grew her personal relationship with God. Throughout her life, she was involved in church, most recently Restoration Ministries in Angola.

Joyce, with her brilliant smile, welcomed people warmly; giving freely her time and energy with an open heart to old friends and new acquaintances alike. She will be deeply missed, we are thankful for every day we were gifted with her love.

"Though I know I'll never lose affection

for people and things that went before

I know I'll often stop and think about them

In my life, I love you more In my life, I love YOU more."

The Beatles In My Life, Rubber Soul

A remembrance service for Joyce Hetrick will be held Saturday, April 6th, 2024 at 12 pm at Restoration Ministries at 9030 US 20 W Maumee Street, Angola, IN 46703.

The service will be streamed, to get the link, email [email protected]

Link for photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/EueN3yYM9Gy9Bo8r5