Joyce Marilyn Young

MADISON-Joyce O. Young, age 69, of Madison, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, Feb. 20, 2012, at Hammersley House. She was born on Oct. 8, 1942, in Detroit, Mich., the daughter of Milford and Esther (Heikkinen) Olson. She married William Young in 1963, and together they raised two beautiful daughters. Joyce received her bachelor’s degree from Augustana College and two master’s degrees in music and counseling psychology from UW-Madison. She was working on her Ph.D. when diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1987. Joyce worked as an elementary music teacher in the Madison Schools, and later as a family therapist for Lutheran Social Services. Music was the theme of her life. She used music to create community. It was a sacred part of her, both in times of darkness and times of light. In addition, she added profound lyrics through poetry and liturgies that she shared with others. She was passionate about gardening, reading, and being in nature. She was an active volunteer in the community. Joyce treasured her relationships with her family and close friends. Joyce is survived by her two daughters, Kristin (Brian) Kellerman and Karin (Mike) Victorson; five grandchildren, Will and Steven Kellerman, and Annika, Ethan, and Erik Victorson; sisters, Joanne Nissen and Karen Olson; former husband, William Young; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. A Celebration of Joyce’s Life will be held at CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 944 E. Gorham Street, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 24, 2012. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Young Life, 724 Ethan Terrace, Verona, WI. 53593. All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well. - Julian of Norwich In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Young Life, 724 Ethan Terrace, Verona, WI. 53593. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. A Celebration of Joyce’s Life will be held at CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 944 E. Gorham Street, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 24, 2012.