Joyce M. Raasch, 79, of the Township of Holton, passed away on Thursday, May 03, 2018 at home under the care of Ministry Hospice surrounded by her family. She was born on March 30, 1939 to Herman, Sr. and Ella (Baumann) Messmann. She married William H. Raasch on October 13, 1956; he preceded her in death on February 2, 2010. Together they lived in Deer Creek, Merrill, and Medford before settling down in Dorchester in 1986. She worked as homemaker for most of her life and also helped on the family farm. In her spare time Joyce enjoyed gardening, birdwatching, woodworking, quilting, puzzles, arts & crafts, painting, ceramics, and baking.
Joyce is survived by her children, Ronald (Kristen) Raasch of Medford, Tammy (Jeff) Lange of Medford, Michelle Raasch of Dorchester, Brian (Tina) Raasch of Colby, Kari (Gary) Lyon of Abbotsford, Dean (Tina) Raasch of Granton, Dana (Kevin) Fechhelm of Abbotsford, and Ann Hoffman of Greenwood; 29 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her sisters, Marlene Vircks of Stetsonville and Betty Vircks of Milwaukee and brother, Gary (Jan) Messmann of Stetsonville; sisters-in-law, Ruth and Susie Messmann. Joyce is also survived by many other family and friends.
In addition to her husband and parents, Joyce is preceded in death by an infant daughter, Kathy; grandson, Eric; brothers, David Messmann and Herman Messmann Jr., and brothers- in-law Marlin and John Vircks.
A memorial service for Joyce will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 12, 2018 at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor Richard Russow officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will take place on Saturday, May 12, 2018 at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.
Memorial donations in Joyce’s name may be given to the family for use a later designation.
Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com
