Obituary: Harper, Joyce L. (Dunn)
Age 80
Joyce was born April 9th, 1934 in Peoria, Oklahoma, to Tina and Archie Dunn.
She passed away peacefully in the evening, November 15th, 2014, in Newport, Washington.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Tina and Archie; son Rodne, and brothers, Denzel, Bud and Jesse.
As a young child Joyce lived in Peoria, Oklahoma, the only sister to six brothers.
Her family relocated to Kellogg, Idaho later in her youth.
A bright student at Kellogg High School, she graduated early at the age of 16.
With a mind that loved numbers and record keeping, she took care of the books at both the Sunshine and Bunker Hill Mines.
Joyce met the love of her life Al, while working at the Bunker Hill, they were married April 2nd, 1960, in Kellogg.
Relocating to Spokane soon thereafter, they raised four children, Rodne, Larry, Allan and daughter Stephanie.
She continued her career in Spokane as the Secretary Treasurer for Acme Concrete.
Joyce and Al shared a love of the outdoors.
They hunted, traveled and spent many summers at their property on Priest River, always reminding their children that they were in “God’s Country”.
After retiring in her 50’s, Joyce and Al spent their summers at the river and their winters in Yuma, Az.
She loved cooking and entertaining for family and friends.
Joyce, (Mom) was a feisty, high spirited woman who was steadfast in her belief in God, honest, and believed strongly in teaching her children to always do the right thing.
She loved animals and her home was not complete without a dog (or two) in the house.
Joyce is survived by husband, Al Harper of Priest River; son, Larry Sevy and wife Sherry of Spokane; son, Allan Harper and wife Brenda of Spokane; daughter, Stephanie Suko and husband Jay of Hayden Lake; brothers, Kenny, Gary and Danny Dunn; twelve grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Joyce will live on in the memories and the hearts of those she touched with her spirited ways and lively personality.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday November 22nd, 11:00 AM, at the United Church of Christ, 430 W. 3rd St. Newport, WA., with a gathering in the fellowship hall immediately following.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of Joyce’s love of animals, donations may be made to your local humane society or animal shelter.
Sherman-Knapp Funeral Home in Newport, WA is in charge of arrangements.
Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book at sherman-knapp.com