Joy L. Donaldson

Joy Donaldson, 69 of La Farge, died Wednesday, April 23, 2014. Joy Lynn Donaldson, age 69, of La Farge passed away suddenly on Wednesday April 23, 2014 at the Norseland Nursing Home in Westby, where she had been after a recent illness. She was born September 6, 1944 in Viroqua WI, to Mervin and Laura (Yakey) Erickson. She graduated from La Farge High School in1962 and on November 16, 1963 she married her childhood friend, classmate, and high school sweetheart, Gary "Butch" Donaldson. He preceded her in death in 1982. Joy was a lifetime resident of La Farge and devoted her life to her children and family. A loving mother and grandmother, Joy was also a loyal and faithful confidante to those who knew her well. She enjoyed visiting with family and friends over a great cup of coffee and was quite proud of her "gift of gab". Even though she had been faced with many challenges throughout her life, she always seemed to overcome them. Her strength and endurance was truly admired by her family. Joy was a well known Milwaukee Brewers, Bucks, and Green Bay Packer fan. She enjoyed a great game and especially enjoyed NCAA Basketball. Joy also had a passion for history and family genealogy. She will be remembered by her family for her steadfast faith, stubborn independence, and most of all her famous homemade noodles that became a mandatory entre at every family event. Joy is survived by her children: Tina (David) Williams of La Farge, and Bruce Donaldson of Viroqua; one special granddaughter, Abbey Williams; one brother Michael (Joyce) Erickson of Elroy; special nieces: Mary (Shawn) Hemenway of New Lisbon, Linda (Donald) Carlston of Wellington, AL, and Teresa (David) Duncan of Rochester, MN; granddaughter Samantha (Corey) Hawkins; great grandchildren, Daiton and Riah; as well as many great nieces and nephews, close cousins, relatives, and friends. Joy was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and grandparents. She will be truly missed by all that knew her. God Bless the memory of Joy Donaldson. A special thank you to Dr. James Feltes, the staff of Norseland Nursing Home, and the staff at Gundersen Health System of La Crosse for providing Joy with compassionate care and understanding. Funeral Services will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, April 28, 2014 at the Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. Pastor Karen Bankes will officiate. Friends may call at the funeral home from noon till the time of service at 1. Online condolences may be offered at www.VossFH.com. The Vosseteig Funeral Home of Westby is serving the family.