Joyce A. Pethan, 69, of Kohler died Friday evening May 26, 2017 at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice after a courageous battle with bone cancer. Her strength during her illness was an inspiration to all who knew her. She was born January 23, 1948 in Seneca, Kansas, daughter of the late William & Mavis (Wilson) Luginbill. As a girl growing up in Seneca she was involved in many community activities. Joyce fondly told many about one of her first jobs as a young archery instructor. She attended school in Seneca and was a 1966 graduate of Seneca High School. She furthered her accounting education in Kansas City at a college of commerce.
On March 14, 1970 she married the love of her life, John Pethan at United Methodist Church, Seneca with Pastor Max Stillwell and Fr. Leo of SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Seneca officiating. John preceded her in death on September 11, 2016.
Joyce had been a dedicated employee of Kohler Company for many years, retiring in May of 2015. She was a faithful member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. She was involved in Toastmasters and enjoyed community theater productions. Her love of the Kohler community led her to be active in the Kohler Girl Scout troop, Kohler School Foundation, and the Kohler Distinguished Guest Series for many years, as well as many other civic activities. She loved the arts, and took pride in cards she handcrafted for those close to her; each one containing a special written message. Recently Joyce learned to play Mahjongg and valued visiting with friends during matches. Traveling with friends and family, whether it be to Kansas, Cancun or other attractions in the US, warmed her heart tremendously. Above all else, Joyce coveted simple, joyful moments, full of laughter and play, with her children and grandchildren.
Survivors include her children; Sarah Pethan, Sheboygan Falls, Alex (Marivic) Pethan, Saudi Arabia, Zachary (Erin) Pethan, Kohler. Her grandchildren; Walter & Annette Pethan, Casper Pethan, sisters; Ruby Dyer, Ponca City, OK., Roberta Luginbill & Penny Kramer, both of Lawrence, KS. sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; Jane Pethan, Jean (Peter) DeTroye, Diane (Marvin) Mangan, David (Karen) Pethan, Karen (Mark) Miller, along with numerous nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband; John, mother-in-law and father-in-law; Robert & Alice Pethan, brother-in-law; Bill Dyer, Sr., nephews; Bill Dyer & Eric DeTroye.
Funeral Mass for Joyce will be celebrated at 5:00pm on Thursday June 1, 2017 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church (600 Green Tree Rd. Kohler) with Fr. Robert Lotz officiating. Family and friends may gather at the church from 3:00pm until 4:45pm when we will have brief family rites prior to mass.
Joyce's family would like to thank Dr. Weber & Dr. Maul and all the nurses and staff at Sharon S. Richardson Hospice for their expert care and compassion. They also profoundly thank each of Joyce's dear friends for the untold caring visits, cards, warm meals, rides to appointments and deep commitment to friendship throughout her illness. A memorial has been established in her name.