Joyce Stankiewicz

Joyce Stankiewicz, 76, of Rockford, died October 21, 2017, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born to Ervin and Helene Smerlinski, October 15, 1941 in Milwaukee, WI. Joyce graduated from East High School in Milwaukee in 1959. She worked at First Wisconsin Bank as an aide and computer programmer, and attended evening classes at Marquette University. She married Eugene Stankiewicz on April 4, 1964, in Milwaukee where they lived before relocating to Rockford in 1974. Once her children were raised Joyce continued with evening classes, graduating with an associate’s degree from Rock Valley College in 1986 and a bachelor’s degree from Rockford College in 1995. Joyce was a library para for RPS 205 from 1976 until her retirement in 2000.
Joyce had been an active member at St. Rita Church where she was involved in the library and Rosary Makers. She also enjoyed her involvement with the Center for Learning in Retirement (CLR). She and Gene enjoyed attending Starlight Theatre productions together. They also loved to travel, Europe and Alaska among their favorite destinations. She was an avid Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers fan. She and Gene enjoyed being season ticket holders for the local Rockford baseball franchises.
Joyce was happiest when spending time with her family, whether it be a birthday, the holidays, or an impromptu visit. She was a fantastic hostess and welcomed anyone into her home. She loved cooking and putting out a spread for her guests.
Joyce was a loving and supportive wife. Her proudest accomplishment was that of mother and grandmother. She thrived on her children’s successes and blossomed with pride when talking about her grandchildren. Her most recent love was visiting with, seeing pictures of, and hearing about her great grandsons. Perhaps her greatest enjoyment came when watching her triplet grandsons swim and play baseball. Notorious for ringing her bicycle bell that was attached to her walker, she proudly showed her unwavering support and cheered them on. She was indeed their biggest fan.
Joyce is survived by husband, Eugene; son Peter (Abby) of Rockford, son Mark of Green Bay, WI, and daughter Jeanne (John) Hawk of Minonk; grandsons Griffin, Nicholas, and Andrew; step grandchildren Daniel (Janelle) Hawk, and Ginny (Darrin) Leasure; and step great grandsons Adam and Lee. She also leaves behind her dog, Patches.
A viewing will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL, 61108 from 6-8 pm on Wednesday, October 25 with rosary at 7:45. And a viewing from 10-10:45 am, followed by mass at 11:00 on Thursday, October 26 at St. Rita Catholic Church, Father John Evans celebrant. Burial at Arlington Memorial Park. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL, 61108