Joyce Evelyn Ovick Fuhrman, 78, of New Brighton, MN, peacefully passed away on April 20, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She was born October 14, 1945, in San Francisco, CA, to Lester and Ruth Ovick. She spent her childhood in Virginia, MN, where she would become a proud big sister to Janet and Norman. These sibling relationships sustained and rooted her her whole life. Just down the road from that small Virginia home, Joyce met her lifelong friend, Karen VanDuzee. This friendship endured many milestones but even more pranks . 

In 1980, a handsome, albeit quiet, man, John, approached Joyce in a random bar in Minnesota. This romance quickly led to a marriage proposal and a wedding to follow on one of the coldest days in Minnesota's history. John had always said it would be a cold day in hell when he got married again. 

The highlight of Joyce’s life was soon to follow. That milestone was being a mother to Megan and Erika, whom she raised with an unwavering commitment to love and care for. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and questionable food. She celebrated every achievement, and every setback was met with encouragement and wisdom. The bond she nurtured with her daughters was not merely born of duty but of a deep friendship that flourished in adulthood. Megan and Erika patiently walked beside her to the end, holding her hand and letting her know she would never be alone or forgotten.

Whether inside or outside of the classroom, Joyce was a lifelong educator. She was a proud Minneapolis Public School teacher but was equally content spending time with Noah, Avery, Azelle, or Luca, her neighbors. She maintained relationships with her teacher friends long after she retired.

As we say goodbye to Joyce, we find solace in knowing that her spirit—a blend of love, courage, and grace—will continue to guide us. Her laughter, her wise counsel, and her undying support remain with us in every step we take. In death, as in life, she reminds of of the Norse saying:

Ditt hjerte som banket så hardt for oss alle,

dine øyne som lyste av godhet og varme,

har stanset og sluknet til sorg for oss hjemme,

men hva du har vært vil vi aldri glemme.

(Norse Proverb)

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 2 pm with a visitation the hour prior at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1900 7th St. NW, New Brighton, MN. 651-633-4674. We ask that you wear a splash of red to celebrate Joyce’s life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to any educational or social good organization of the donor’s choice.