Joyce Ann Metzenbacher, age 87, of Waterford, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 4, 2022 at Saint Vincent Hospital. Born April 8, 1935 in Erie, Joyce was the daughter of Edward and Velma Pero Kestel. She grew up in Erie practically raising herself and learning the value of hard work. She married William W. Metzenbacher on December 27, 1952, and they raised their family mostly living in Cambridge Springs and Waterford.
Joyce was a woman of great faith and served her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by being a loving wife, mother and grandmother, being an active member of Washington Valley Christian Church, and by serving as a missionary. For 39 years, Joyce and Bill traveled to Arizona to serve at the Southwest Indian School.
Joyce loved traveling and gardening, and she thought each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were most special.
Family members preceding her in death include a son, Jeffry Metzenbacher, and a grandson, Ryan Harding.
Those that remain to mourn her loss include her loving husband of 69 years, Bill; three children- Gary Metzenbacher of Columbus, OH, Cynthia Smith and husband Steve of Leominister, MA, and Julie Ludwig and husband Robert of Union City; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her lifelong dear friend, Joanne Lenart.
Friends may call at Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford on Sunday, August 7th from 5 – 8 pm, and are invited to funeral services there on Monday at 11:00 am. Committal service and burial will follow at Waterford Cemetery.
I did not know that Joyce had passed away until a mutual friend, Anne Roden, sent me the obituary. Joyce was one of a kind and I had the opportunity to work with her a few years at Southwest Indian School where I served as a missionary. Her love for Jesus and those children was so evident! May God comfort you and send people to love on you in these days and months ahead. You will see her again! And what a reunion that will be!
Very sorry to hear of your mothers passing. Prayers that God gives you comfort and Peace.
Prayers of comfort and condolences to the Metzenbacher family on the loss of their mom, wife, sister, and friend. God has gained another angel. In time I know that you will cherish all the memories you have made and look forward to seeing your loved one again.
What a sweet couple Joyce and Bill made. I’m sure she will be missed by many. Prayers of understanding, strength and comfort for Bill and family.
Heaven is a place where family and friends no longer say good-bye to one another <3