Joyce F. Holtz, age 74, of Iowa City, formerly of Stockton, passed away Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, at the UI Health Care Medical Center Downtown. Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial gathering was held from 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21, at Bentley Funeral Home, Durant. A memorial service was held at 7 p.m., following the gathering. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lakeview SIS PTO, which will help build a new elementary playground. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Joyce was born on Sept. 1, 1951, the daughter of Vernon and Frances (Price) Paustian in Davenport. She graduated from Durant High School with the Class of 1969. Joyce married Gary A. Holtz on Oct. 17, 1969, in Wilton. Gary passed away on Aug. 17, 2013.
For many years, Joyce was a dedicated homemaker, cherishing the time she spent raising her son, Dan. Once he entered the eighth grade, she began working at Up Electronics in Tipton, where she was employed for over 25 years before retiring in 2016. Following her retirement, she continued to stay active in the community, working in the lunchroom at Durant Community Schools.
In 2023, Joyce moved to Iowa City to be closer to her son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. While there, she volunteered at the Crowded Closet. Joyce loved baking, quilting, knitting, and crocheting — she was especially known for her crocheted potholders and her delicious Christmas sugar cookies, both of which became family favorites and traditions. She also found great joy in working on puzzles, reading mystery novels, and spending quiet time with her beloved cat, Penelope.
Above all, Joyce’s greatest joy came from her family. She loved attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, and family dinners were among her most treasured moments. Her warmth, patience, and love will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she so dearly loved.
Joyce will be lovingly remembered by her son, Dan (Melissa) Holtz of Solon, two grandchildren, Austin and Sara Holtz; two sisters, Janice (Tom) Keller of Bettendorf and Linda Dahlin of Davenport; one brother, Charles (Janet) Paustian of Durant; and several nieces and nephews.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gary; two sisters, Diana Henry and Denise O’Toole; and three brothers-in-law, Mark Henry, Kerry O’Toole, and Dale LeClaire.
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