Obituary of Joyce Geraldine Woodruff

Joyce Geraldine Woodruff, age 97 of Minneapolis, MN, passed away on Wednesday, June 26, 2024. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John N. Woodruff and her sister, Jean Price. Joyce is survived by her sons, Lee (Molly), John, Jim (Cathy Armajani) and Mitch (Rhonda); Grandchildren, Matt (Andrea), Joe (Maree), Raleigh (Marybeth), Miles, Faith, Ashley (Ed) Raati, Luke, Hanna (Trevor) Yedoni and Erika (Phil) along with 11 Great-Grandchildren and many relatives and friends.

Joyce graduated from Washburn High School in 1945. After high school she was a lifeguard at Camden Pool in North Minneapolis. This is where she met John Woodruff. They were married in September of 1950.

She was also employed by Capital Airlines as a Stewardess in 1948-1950. We think that this is where her love for travel began. Over the years Joyce and John took many road trips including, Canada, Maine, Vermont, Utah to name just a few. Joyce also traveled with close friends to Italy and Hawaii.

Joyce was dedicated to her family. She loved spending time with family and friends, gathering for holidays, birthdays, picnics, Friday morning coffee with the girls, playing bridge and volunteering at church. Mom loved spending time outdoors, gardening, hiking, biking, golfing and enjoying concerts at the Lake Harriet bandshell.

As our family grew larger, we have fond memories of our “annual family vacation” at Towering Pines Resort. Enjoying time at the lake, fishing, swimming, boating, playing mini-golf, games, cards and campfires, along with, of course, a delicious “fish fry”.

Mom was a wonderful cook. When she hosted family dinners, however, she rarely sat down long enough to eat her “own” dinner. She always wanted to make sure “everyone else” had enough to eat.

For the last year Mom lived at Sunrise of Edina, where she received wonderful care, along with the caregivers from Hospice of the Midwest.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Lynnhurst Congregational United Church of Christ 4501 Colfax Avenue S., Minneapolis. A visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 am, with the service following.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of the Midwest or charity of your choice.