Joyce L. Gatzke, 90, of Regent and Hettinger, ND, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025 at the West River Regional Medical Center in Hettinger, ND.

Joyce, daughter of Christ and Marie (Ness) Krogh was born on a farm five and one-half miles south of Regent. She attended Alden School, a little country school house near her home. She graduated from Regent High School.

Joyce married Herbert Gatzke in 1954, and three children were born to this union, Bradley Allen, Wanda Kay, and Carol Lynn.

Joyce was a housewife and mother staying at home until the children were in school. She then went to work outside the home as a cook and bus driver for Regent Public School.

Her favorite activities were being outdoors working in the yard cutting grass and taking care of her flowers, plus helping Herb plant the garden. She canned many jars of pickles using the fresh cucumbers, dill, and garlic from the garden. Another past-time was shopping for the best deals at her favorite stores. According to her family she made the best "yum yum" bars for special occasions.

Joyce and Herbert lived in Regent all their lives. After the passing of Herbert in 2017, Joyce remained in their home in Regent for five years. In September of 2022, Joyce went to live at Western Horizon Care Center in Hettinger, ND. Joyce enjoyed participating in the activities of Bingo, listening to special music performers, and attending church while at the care center. She appreciated getting a free hair cut and having her hair fixed on Thursdays.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert, sisters: Louise Olson, Orlean Rysavy, Margie Krug, and brother Clarence Krogh.

She is survived by her son, Bradley (Laura) Gatzke, Hettinger, two daughters, Wanda (Dave) Geiger, Dickinson, and Carol (Paul) Prince, Mandan, four grandchildren, Amanda DeMorrett, great grandchild Brayden DeMorrett, and Brant (Paula) Geiger, Dickinson, Leonard (Amy) Prince, great grandchildren Emma and Judd Prince, Beulah, Christina (Charles) Brantner, West Fargo.

The family sincerely thanks Western Horizon staff and volunteers who took care of Mom the last three years. Also thanks to Evanson Jensen Funeral homes for their services.

Private burial services will be held at a later date.