A photo will be posted when available.

Joyce Elaine Starke peacefully passed away July 17^th, 2025 while a resident at the Griggs County Care Center, Cooperstown ND. Several family members where at her side when she quietly left this worldly realm and went home to Jesus.

Joyce was born to William and Lenore Neuharth (Begordis) September 6th, 1931 in Washburn, ND. In 1941 the Neuharth family moved to Portland, ND, then again in 1947 moved to New Rockford, ND, where she graduated from high school. Joyce was united in marriage to William (Bill) H. Starke on September 3rd, 1950, New Rockford ND.

Joyce lived a full and joyful life, involved in many diverse organizations and building community wherever she went. However, the most important things in her life were her 71 years of marriage to Bill, her devotion to their family as it grew over the years, the enjoyment derived from her large circle of friends and most importantly, her deep faith in God.

Joyce will be fondly remembered for being a gracious host for all the holidays and celebrations that took place at “The Farm”. Easter, Christmas, Thanksgivings and birthdays were all joyous occasions celebrated around her table, Bill on the west end and Joyce the east. It was rare to leave her table without being over full.

Joyce’s longest running avocation was her hands-on involvement in the music ministry at the 1st Congregational Church. Playing the organ and piano, singing in and directing the choir and the occasional soprano solo were talents she shared with her church family, and the community at large for many years. Her love of music set an example for her children and grandchildren, instilling a lasting legacy of music ministry.

As mentioned, Joyce was a member supporter of many organizations. Congregational Church, Homemakers, 4-H, CNDSTR, DPRCA, Red Hatters, CCU, Soil Conservation, Music Clubs, Lions and many more.

Perhaps the most profound legacy Joyce has given us was her example of true love and friendship. Her union with Bill was one of honest partnership and deep devotion. Bill and Joyce dedicated their lives to bettering their community and worked endlessly to share their home and hearts with the people surrounding them.  They served as pillars of the community through leadership and servitude.

The family of Joyce would like to extend their deepest, heartfelt appreciation to the staff of The Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd in New Rockford and the Griggs County Care Center in Cooperstown. The good people that walk those hallways to assist and care for their residents are in our opinion, heroes. We thank you.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Deborah (Dave) McCullum; son, Clinton; grandchildren, Katie and Laura (Deborah), Josh, Tyler, Megan, Alyssa, Hillary and Audra (Clinton), and 5 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Vern; husband, Bill; daughter-in-law, Brenda and grandson-in-law, Adam.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd, Griggs County Care Center or HIA Hospice.

Joyce’s Visitation will be Friday, August 29, 2025 from 12:00PM – 1:00PM followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:00PM at First Lutheran Church, New Rockford, ND.

Her Burial will be at Prairie Home Cemetery, New Rockford, ND.