Joyce E. Schleich

Joyce Schleich, 88, of La Crosse, passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Eagle Crest South. Born in La Crosse, WI, to Gilbert and Vianna (Rotzoll) Liersch, Joyce lived a life filled with faith, family, and friendship.

Joyce began her career as an X-ray technician before marrying her husband, Gerald "Jed" Schleich, on June 22, 1959, in Hokah, MN. She later devoted herself to her family as a housewife and mother and eventually joined and retired from the La Crescent School District as a school cook.

During her nearly 60 years in La Crescent, Joyce cherished the time spent with her neighbors, often enjoying spirited backyard conversations on many summer nights. Together with Jed, she embraced a life of camping and RVing, broadening their horizons, and forging bonds with a circle of lifelong friends. Visits with relatives were equally important, as Joyce loved to reminisce and strengthen family connections. After relocating to Eagle Crest, her days were consistently brightened by valued visits and calls from new and old friends.

Family was Joyce’s cornerstone. With Jed, she shared 56 years of loving marriage, raising their children, Jayne and Mike. Joyce was especially grateful and proud of her children's and grandchildren's accomplishments. Her grandchildren, Brianna and Megan, were particular sources of pride and joy.

Joyce is survived by her children, Jayne (Dave) Otto of La Crosse, WI, and Michael (Lisa) Schleich of Liberty Lake, WA; her grandchildren, Brianna (Cindy) Belanger and Megan Schleich; and her great-grandchild, Cameron Belanger. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Alice Schleich of Caledonia, as well as nieces, nephews, and extended family members, including Nick Otto and Tanya (Otto) Vangen. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Norbert.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, April 25, at 1:00 PM at the Church of the Crucifixion in La Crescent, with Rev. John L. Evans, II officiating. Burial will follow in the Crucifixion Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the service, starting at noon.  Memorials may be made to the Crucifixion Catholic Grade School or Church of the Crucifixion. Schumacher-Kish Funeral & Cremation Services of La Crescent is handling the arrangements.

Joyce was profoundly grateful for the support and care from her community in her final years. She departed this life with a heart full of gratitude for the wonderful life she had lived.