Joyce Johner Choate

It is with profound sadness and gentle reflection that we announce the passing of our beloved Joyce Johner Choate, who left this world peacefully at home on June 23, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on May 2, 1935, in St. Charles, Missouri, Joyce's journey through life was marked by love, laughter, and a heart full of kindness. Joyce was the cherished daughter of Frank and Mabel Johner, who predeceased her, along with her beloved husband, Loren Choate, with whom she shared 48 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life rich in love and family. She was also preceded in death by her siblings Sharon (Lew) Marquardt, Lee (David) Guttmann, Peggy (Jerry) Johner, Mern Hanes, Sonny Johner, and Chick Johner. Joyce leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her surviving family: her devoted daughters Kenneth (Lydia) Choate and Carla Sue (Ron) Harden. Her five grandchildren—Rebecca (Greg) Fancher, Zachary Alan Kaase, Michelle Marie Kaase, Hannah Lydia Choate, and Marissa Dion Harden—were the light of her life, as were her great-grandchildren, Harrison Fancher and Imogen Fancher, who brought her immense joy and pride. She is also survived by her dear sister, Lynn (Lowell) Ahrens, whose companionship and love were constants throughout her life. A woman of many talents and interests, Joyce was an avid reader who found solace and adventure in the pages of her favorite books. Her mind was sharp and inquisitive, often challenged by the crossword puzzles she so loved. Joyce's warmth and vivacity shone brightly in the card games and square dances she enjoyed, where laughter and friendship were her partners. Her kitchen was a haven of culinary delights, where she cooked and baked with love, generously sharing her creations with the community she adored. Joyce was a beacon of compassion, kindness, and joy. Her gentle spirit and unwavering love touched the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she enriched. A service to honor and celebrate Joyce's life will be held on June 29, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Baue Funeral Home, located at 620 Jefferson St, St Charles, MO, 63301. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Joyce are invited to join in remembrance of a life well-lived and a spirit that will forever remain in our hearts. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Joyce's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting her lifelong dedication to kindness and generosity. As we bid farewell to Joyce, let us also celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of love, kindness, and the enduring power of family.