Joyce Kniess

Joyce Kniess, 74, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024 in Dubuque, Iowa, following a two-year battle with cancer.

Joyce was born on August 9, 1950 in Rockford, IL, daughter of Algot ‘Baker’ and Lila (Hokanson) Skogsberg, and granddaughter of Mauritz and Valborg Hokanson, all members of the International Order of Good Templars (IOGT), Rockford Chapter #40, Vega Lodge.

Joyce graduated from Rockford East High School in 1968, after which she worked as a mailman for 37 years; 7 years as a city letter carrier and 30 years as a rural mail carrier, both in Rockford and Loves Park. When her grandchildren were born, Joyce left Rockford to become the ultimate grandmother.

Joyce was a fun-loving spirit, filled with boundless energy, good humor, and genuine smiles. Every person she met felt the benefit of her uplifting, lively personality. Her loss will be felt deeply amongst her family and friends.

Joyce was predeceased by her brother Wally Skogsberg in 2020. Surviving relatives include her son Brett (Kim) Kniess and grandchildren Zoë and Gemma Kniess; cousin Ronald Johnson of Chicago, niece Robyn Berendsen, and nephew Derick Skogsberg.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 28, 2024 with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will conclude in Arlington Memorial Park, Rockford, IL. 

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