Joyce Evelyn Brown

MADISON-Joyce E Brown, age 76, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, March 19, 2017, at home surrounded by her family. She was born on March 12, 1941, in Waukesha, the daughter of Joseph and Evelyn (Schmitt) Swatek. Joyce was a selfless mother, wife and grandmother as well as nurse and caregiver to many patients at Karmenta nursing home. She loved gardening and the outdoors. Joyce enjoyed feeding and watching the birds in her backyard, and loved animals, especially horses and her cat, Rosie. In her younger days, Joyce was a talented equestrian who competed at the county fair. She was a talented cook who would make sure you never left the house without a meal, or treats at Christmas time. Joyce is survived by her sons, Steve Brown, Jeff (Kristi) Brown, Scott (Kelli) Brown and Eric (Alexandra) Brown; six grandchildren, Abigail, Audrey, Megan, Emily, Brooke, Jace,; sister, Marie Mehring; brother, Gerald (Judy) Swatek; and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ralph; brother, Donald Swatek; and brother-in-law, Chuck Mehring. In accordance to Joyce's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held. Memorials may be made in Joyce's name to Heartland Hospice, 2810 Crossroads Drive, STE 1900, Madison, Wi 53718. We would like to extend a special thanks for the attentive and loving care of the nurses and caregivers of Heartland Hospice. We are so grateful. I am a thousand winds that blow; I am the diamond glints of snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain; I am the gentle autumn's rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush, I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft star that shines at night. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420