Joyce Kasper

Joyce Arline Kasper, 84, of Clear Lake, formerly of Forest City and Thornton, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at Apple Valley Assisted Living in Clear Lake.

 A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, November 18, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City with Rev. Rod Hopp officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church. Cataldo Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

To view the live stream of her service please click the following link:  Joyce Kasper Memorial Service

 Born on August 5, 1940, to Marius (Shorty) and Helen (Hartwig) Wonsmos in Thornton, Iowa, Joyce cherished her early years, often helping her father on the family farm. She graduated from Thornton School in 1959 and attended Wartburg College, majoring in Business Education. In 1963, Joyce married John Kasper, and they moved to Oak Lawn, Illinois, where they welcomed two sons, Kenneth Douglas and John Christ Jr. Joyce dedicated 15 years to teaching at both high school and middle school levels, impacting countless students with her passion and commitment to education. In 1977, Joyce and her sons returned to Thornton, Iowa, where she continued to build a life filled with faith, family, and resilience.

Joyce was an active member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thornton. She was an avid collector of cookbooks and a creative cook, loved reading, and frequented local libraries wherever she lived. Her greatest joy was watching her grandchildren in their activities and sports, where she was always their proudest fan.

Joyce’s career extended to Hamilton Business College and Kaplan University, and after retirement, she moved to Forest City, joining Immanuel Lutheran Church, where she served on the church council and participated actively in Circle groups and book clubs. No matter life’s challenges, Joyce always ensured her sons had what they needed. She was a steadfast provider who put her family first, leaving a legacy of resilience and love.

In her later years, Joyce moved to Clear Lake, finding friendship and community at Lake Plaza Apartments, and later enjoyed her time at Apple Valley Assisted Living, where she participated in many activities with joy.

Joyce is survived by her sons, Ken (Ariann) Kasper of Garner and John (Sarah) Kasper of Boulder, CO; five grandchildren, Zach (Shelby) Kasper, Zeke (Sarah) Kasper, Carver Kasper, Payton Kasper, and Reese Kasper; and two great-grandchildren, Brock and Zoe Kasper.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marius (Shorty) and Helen Wonsmos; and her infant brother, Steven.