Joyce Elaine Martens

Joyce Elaine Martens (Peters), aged 75, passed away on September 13, 2024, in her home, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Greensburg, KS, Joyce was a beacon of strength and wit, always ready with a Dr Pepper and a deck of cards for an impromptu pinochle game. Her warm-hearted and generous nature made her home a welcoming hub where she was always prepared to feed a crowd at a moment's notice.

A 1966 graduate of Greensburg High School, Joyce met her husband, Lowell, at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, OK and earned her teaching degree from Washburn University in 1970. She dedicated 40 years to teaching in Topeka, Newton, and nearby communities, leaving a lasting impact on her students and colleagues.

A lifelong member of the Koerner Heights Mennonite Brethren Church in Newton, KS, Joyce found great solace and community in her faith. She was known for her many hobbies, including cruising, playing cards and games, solving puzzles, cooking, and canning the produce from her garden. Joyce also enjoyed selling fireworks, but perhaps her greatest joy came from traveling with her beloved husband, Lowell, and attending the countless events of her children and grandchildren. She will be remembered for her legacy of hospitality and humor, with a special gift for preparing the perfect amount of food for any gathering, no matter the size. For the past five years, Joyce and Lowell spent their winters volunteering at Rio Grande Bible Ministries in Edinburg, Texas, a reflection of her generous spirit and love for others. Each activity she embraced was an extension of her vibrant personality, bringing warmth and joy to all who knew her. 

Joyce is survived by her loving husband, Lowell Martens of Newton, KS; daughter, Melissa Leonard and her husband Chris of Andover, KS; sons, Eric Martens and wife Audrea of Blaine, KS, and Bryce Martens and wife Kaylee Hervey of Wichita, KS; grandchildren Levi Feil and wife Camron, Malachi Feil, Nate Leonard, Jarritt Martens, and Bailey Martens; sister, Arnetta Boyce and husband Ed of Admire, KS; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and honorary family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Elnora Peters; sisters, Peggy Fenton and Dorothy Ford; and granddaughters, Austin and Addison Martens. 

Visitation will be held at Koerner Heights Church, 320 N Meridian Rd, Newton, KS, on Friday, September 20, 2024, from 6-8pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at the same location on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 11:00am. Memorials are suggested to Koerner Heights Youth Group or Rio Grande Bible Ministries, in care of Broadway Colonial Funeral Home. Joyce will be remembered for her strength, love, and generosity, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

The service on Saturday will be live streamed on the Koerner Heights Facebook page for those who are unable to attend.