Joyce E. Baumgartner, 87

Joyce E. Baumgartner, 87 of Columbia Falls, went peacefully home to be with her heavenly Father on June 12, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born on Sept. 12, 1936, in Stanley, North Dakota, the daughter of Orville and Gwen Thronson.

She was baptized, confirmed, and active in the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church her whole life.

Joyce was raised in Ross, North Dakota. After completion of college, she taught school in North Dakota and on June 5, 1955, she married Orville Baumgartner. After living in California and Utah they moved to Montana in 1967 with their five children enjoying life on their farm where Joyce could often be found tending her extensive flower garden. Joyce worked for the Deer Park School District, retiring after 30 years. 

Joyce was a wonderful wife and mother who was always there when needed the most, offering support, wisdom and love in abundance. A friend to many, she was a cherished member of the Deer Park community and Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, where she served as the pianist for over 50 years. She will be missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her husband Orville of 68 years, and is survived by her children, Pam Randazzo, Peggy Martin (Wes), Kathy Suvak (Dave), Jim Baumgartner (Debby), and Jeff Baumgartner; her grandchildren, Kristel and Meghan Jones, Heather, Sal and Heidi Randazzo, Kyle and Kayla Suvak; and 10 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, and in remembrance of Joyce’s life, any charitable donations can be made to Hope Pregnancy Ministries, 1281 Burns Way, Kalispell, MT 59901.

There will be a graveside inurnment at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 21, at Fairview Cemetery, 1225 Fairview Cemetery Rd., Columbia Falls, with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 640 Seventh St. W., Columbia Falls. To send online condolences, please visit www.columbiamortuary.com.